More COVID-19: Midway Tower Closed for Decontamination (UPDATED)

Image: AP

Chicago's Midway tower was closed this afternoon after three "technicians" tested positive for the novel coronavirus. “The air traffic control tower at Midway Airport is temporarily closing while we ensure a safe work environment for air traffic controllers and technicians,” the FAA said. The airport is open but flights have been delayed as the facility is being cleaned.

“The FAA continues to maintain close contact with airports, airlines and other stakeholders during this situation,” the FAA said. According to FlightAware, the airport has seen nearly 180 cancellations, the bulk affecting Southwest, which uses KMDW as a Midwest hub. Some 170 of Southwest's flights have been canceled, representing 37 percent of the day's volume.

UPDATE: The Midway tower had not been reopened by midday Wednesday, causing the cancellation of hundreds of flights. Southwest is hardest hit, with 302 flight cancellations and 18 delays, according to FlightAware.

COVID-19

Marc CookEditor

KITPLANES Editor in Chief Marc Cook has been in aviation journalism for more than 30 years. He is a 4000-hour instrument-rated, multi-engine pilot with experience in nearly 150 types. He’s completed two kit aircraft, an Aero Designs Pulsar XP and a Glasair Sportsman 2+2, and currently flies a 2002 GlaStar.