Guyana's aviation authorities are monitoring a nationwide ground stop imposed by the United States Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) on Friday following communication problems affecting air traffic control operations.

According to the Associated Press, the disruption affected the 22 regional air traffic control centres responsible for directing aircraft between airports across the United States. The FAA imposed the restriction on safety grounds while technicians investigate the telecommunications outage.

Minister of Public Utilities and Aviation Deodat Indar says the Guyana Civil Aviation Authority is monitoring the situation and awaiting further information from its US counterpart.

In a telephone interview with Ignite News, Indar said the restriction affects flights awaiting departure, while aircraft already airborne are being allowed to land.

He said Guyanese authorities are awaiting further updates as the situation unfolds, noting that the development has global implications.

Hon. Deodat Indar Minister of Public Utilities & Aviation