BWI power outage: Baltimore-Washington International Airport electrical disruption causes flight delays, cancellations

A power outage at Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport (BWI) on Monday morning caused significant flight delays and travel disruptions. The outage affected areas of the main terminal and an adjacent parking garage, leading to widespread inconvenience for passengers.

Extent of flight delays and cancellations

According to a flight tracking website Flight Aware, more than 150 flights were delayed, and dozens more were canceled due to the outage. Some inbound flights were diverted, while others faced lengthy delays as airlines and airport officials worked to manage the situation.

Cause of the power failure

The outage was reported around 7:40 a.m. and was caused by a downed power line near the airport, according to Stephanie Weaver, a spokesperson for Baltimore Gas and Electric Company. Crews were dispatched to restore power, and progress was made throughout the morning.

Partial restoration and airline adjustments

By 10 a.m., airport officials reported that power was gradually being restored in the main terminal. Some airlines implemented alternative measures, such as using air stairs to deplane passengers, as they worked around the disruptions.

Full restoration and lingering delays

Officials announced around noon that power had been fully restored. However, passengers were warned to expect long lines at ticket counters, security checkpoints, and concession stands as the airport worked to return to normal operations. Travelers were advised to check with their airlines for the latest flight status updates.