US: Flights disruptions possible at regional airports in parts of Mississippi, Alabama and Tennessee Sept. 3 due to aviation incident.

Event

Flights disruptions are possible at regional airports over parts of northern Mississippi and to a lesser extent northern Alabama and southern Tennessee, Sept. 3 due to an ongoing aviation incident. According to reports, an individual stole a small aircraft around the city of Tupelo, Miss., and circled the city while threatening to crash it into a local Walmart. Latest information suggests the aircraft is circling in the air southeast of Holly Springs, Miss. The situation remains unresolved, though the aircraft is likely running low on fuel. As a result of the incident being ongoing, regional aviation authorities may issue ground-stop orders, or reroute or divert flights flying to or from airports in the impact area.

In addition, in response to the incident police in Tupelo evacuated the Walmart store and surrounding areas.

Flight disruptions could last at least until the situation is resolved; lingering disruptions could persist beyond that as authorities adjust schedules and clear backlogs of flights.

Advice

Confirm flights if booked fly through impacted airports Sept. 3. If in Tupelo, minimize movements and adhere to the instructions of authorities.