Pilot/Controller Glossary
GROUND DELAY PROGRAM (GDP)
This reproduces published FAA reference text for study. It does not replace the current official FAA publication or regulation.
A traffic management process administered by the ATCSCC, when aircraft are held on the ground. The purpose of the program is to support the TM mission and limit airborne holding. It is a flexible program and may be implemented in various forms depending upon the needs of the AT system. Ground delay programs provide for equitable assignment of delays to all system users.
Retrieved from ecfr.gov on July 18, 2026.