The Kansas City Current faced significant travel disruptions Friday after a nationwide ground stop issued by the Federal Aviation Administration delayed their flight to New York City.
The team was scheduled to fly out for their upcoming National Women’s Soccer League semifinal match against Gotham FC, according to reporting from Yahoo Sports.
Players had already boarded their charter plane when the ground stop was implemented, forcing the team to deplane as the delay became indefinite.
A team spokesperson confirmed the logistical challenge and noted that they are working with the league and charter partners to ensure a safe arrival, as documented in The Athletic.
Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy stated on social media that FAA technicians are currently investigating a communication issue that is impacting all Air Route Traffic Control Centers.
In contrast, the Utah Royals, who are set to face the Washington Spirit in a separate semifinal, avoided the travel chaos by flying to their destination on Thursday, per The Athletic.
The U.S. men’s national team also escaped the grounding, as their flight from Atlanta arrived in Miami just before the FAA order took effect, allowing their match against Haiti to proceed.
This travel hurdle is the latest in a series of logistical scrambles for the NWSL playoffs.
Gotham FC was previously forced to move their home match from their usual stadium to Icahn Stadium on Randall’s Island due to poor pitch conditions, according to The Athletic.
The Washington Spirit also faced venue complications, ultimately coordinating with D.C. United and organizers of a college football game to share Audi Field.
The field will be lined for both sports to accommodate the schedule, with the NWSL semifinal set to be played before the football contest.
As the Current look to finalize their travel, league officials remain focused on ensuring all teams reach their respective venues in time for the weekend matches.