Flight Delays: Overheating Circuit Board Causes “Strong Chemical Smell” At Potomac TRACON

A chemical smell at Potomac TRACON on Friday, March 13, led to a ground stop, causing significant flight delays and cancellations at major airports near the United States capital. The odor, which was traced to an overheated circuit board, affected several air traffic controllers. Following the evacuation, a ground stop was issued so the center could be evacuated and attended to by emergency services.