Washington Airports Task Force

10/12/2026

🌍 Happy Columbus Day 🌍

Today we celebrate exploration, discovery, and connection.

Columbus Day reminds us that expanding horizons creates opportunity. In the modern era, that expansion happens through the flights and global connectivity that connect our region to the world.

Washington Dulles International Airport and Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport are our modern gateways to discovery—connecting Northern Virginia businesses and travelers to opportunity across the globe.

10/06/2026

Why do millions of travelers choose Washington's airports every year? It's not just about getting from point A to point B - it's about the experience.

✈️ Convenience: Direct flights to 125+ destinations worldwide
🌍 Global connectivity: International routes from Dulles, domestic efficiency from Reagan National
🏢 World-class facilities: Modern terminals, restaurants, retail, charging stations
⏱️ Time savings: Shorter commutes through nearby regional airports
👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Family friendly: Accessible, comfortable spaces for travelers of all ages

Every traveler represents economic activity. Every flight connection enables business opportunity, family reunions, and regional growth.

WATF advocates for the aviation infrastructure that keeps these experiences world-class.

The next time you fly through Dulles or Reagan National, remember: infrastructure matters.

09/30/2026

What is WATF focused on right now? The Washington Airports Task Force has four core priorities guiding our work in 2026:

SUPPORT Air Service at Washington Airports
Enhance competitiveness, expand facilities, promote growth at both Dulles and Reagan National

DRIVE Region-Wide Economic Development
Smart land-use development, Foreign Trade Zone expansion, sustainable aviation, meaningful partnerships

PROMOTE Enhanced Regional Multi-Modal Transportation
Improve surface transportation access to both airports, reduce congestion, boost regional connectivity

LEAD Industry and Community Fundraising Initiatives
Generate support and drive positive impact across the region

Aviation infrastructure drives economic opportunity. WATF's work ensures Northern Virginia maintains the competitive advantages that attract business, create jobs, and strengthen our region.

Learn more about our priorities: https://www.washingtonairports.com/watf-priorities/

09/22/2026

Back to school season is here—and for some students, this year marks the beginning of an aviation career pathway.

Northern Virginia is home to world-class aviation training programs. Students are enrolling in:

✈️ Flight training programs
🔧 Aircraft maintenance technology
🎓 Aerospace engineering degrees
💼 Airport operations certificates

These students represent the next generation of aviation professionals who will keep our region's airports operating at peak performance.

If you're a student or parent exploring career options, consider this: Aviation careers offer strong job security, competitive compensation, and the satisfaction of contributing to critical infrastructure.

WATF supports workforce development that builds the pipeline for our region's aviation future.

09/18/2026

The Washington Airports Task Force is celebrating three decades of the Williams Trophy at its 44th Annual General Membership Meeting on December 9, 2026 — and this year's recipients are United Airlines and the Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority (MWAA), honored for their partnership and investment at Washington Dulles International Airport.

The event will also debut the new Leo Schefer Community Impact Award, with its inaugural recipient going to the TSA team at Dulles, plus a special fundraiser benefiting Special Olympics Virginia.

🔗 Read the full story: https://www.washingtonairports.com/washington-airports-task-force-celebrates-30-years-of-the-williams-trophy-announces-united-airlines-and-mwaa-as-2026-recipients/

Annual General Meeting will also debut the Leo Schefer Community Impact Award and feature a special fundraiser benefiting Special Olympics Virginia DULLES, Va. — August 2026 — The Washington Airports Task Force will celebrate the 30th Anniversary of the Williams Trophy at its 44th Annual General...

09/11/2026

On this day, we honor those we lost and recognize the resilience, courage, and unity that followed.

Aviation changed that day, but the strength of the American spirit, the dedication of first responders, and the commitment to moving forward proved unshakeable.

Washington Dulles International Airport and Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport, like airports nationwide, represent our enduring commitment to freedom, connectivity, and hope.

We remember. We honor. 🇺🇸

09/07/2026

Happy Labor Day! 🇺🇸

Today we honor the workers who keep our region moving—including the thousands of aviation professionals at Washington Dulles International Airport and Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport.

Behind every flight, every passenger experience, and every safe landing are dedicated professionals:

✈️ Pilots and flight crews
🔧 Aircraft maintenance technicians
🎯 Air traffic controllers
🛂 Security and customs officers
🧳 Ground handlers and operations staff
💼 Customer service and administrative teams

Their work connects families, powers business, and supports opportunity across Northern Virginia.

Thank you for your service and dedication.

09/01/2026

✈️🏃‍♀️ What an incredible turnout for the 14th Annual Dulles 5K/10K on the Runway!

Approximately 2,789 runners registered, with an impressive 91% participating in this year's race at Washington Dulles International Airport. Combined with spectators, 3,046 people came through the Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center as part of this unforgettable event.

And they came from near and far—with participants traveling from California, Texas, Ohio, Pennsylvania, and even Germany to experience the rare opportunity to run on an actual runway at Dulles!

This unique event showcases what's possible when organizations like WATF and our presenting sponsors, to include Dulles International Airport, United Airlines, and Marriott Washington Dulles Airport, partner around shared community values.

Race proceeds benefit Special Olympics Virginia, the Committee for Dulles Community Outreach, and the Washington Airports Task Force, all 501c3 nonprofit organizations closely affiliated with Dulles Airport.

To every participant, volunteer, sponsor (see the full list at https://runsignup.com/Race/Sponsors/VA/Chantilly/Dulles5K10KOnTheRunway), and supporter: thank you! Your participation fuels WATF's advocacy for aviation expansion and economic development in our region.

To view race results, visit https://runsignup.com/Race/Results/Overview/179999.

To view some photos, visit https://runsignup.com/Race/Photos/VA/Chantilly/Dulles5K10KOnTheRunway?raceEventDaysId=398909.

08/26/2026

Race Week Tips: How to Prepare for the Dulles 5K/10K ✈️ The race is this Saturday, August 29th—here's what you need to know:

📍 Where: Washington Dulles International Airport
⏰ When: August 29, 7:30 AM
🎟️ Spots: Limited to 2,500 participants
🚗 Free parking is available at the Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center.

This unique event is only possible through the partnership between WATF and MWAA. Learn more here: https://runsignup.com/Race/VA/Chantilly/Dulles5K10KOnTheRunway

08/17/2026

A visionary group of regional leaders decided to “do something about Dulles Airport,” which was then viewed as a wasted asset. Years later, improved air service has helped the National Capital region achieve one of the highest levels of prosperity in the nation. Washington Dulles now is one of the top 10 gateways to the nation, and the global reach created has helped make Washington America’s largest technology center.

Learn About The 40+ Year History of WATF ---> https://www.washingtonairports.com/history-of-watf/