Metro Safeguards Airport Access with Weekend Shuttles

Shuttle buses replace Metro trains at Crystal City, Potomac Yard, Reagan Airport stations

2026-03-07, Moovit News Team

Reagan Airport Metro Stations Get Shuttle Buses

Travelers heading to Reagan National Airport this weekend should plan extra time as shuttle buses replace Metro trains at three stations. Crystal City, Potomac Yard, and the airport station will require passengers to board shuttle buses instead of regular trains, transit officials said Thursday. The service change affects key access points for air travelers in the DC-Maryland-Virginia area, though officials didn't specify how much additional travel time riders should expect.
Metro shuttle bus at Reagan National Airport station with passengers boarding

Weekend Maintenance Affects Airport Access

The shuttle bus replacements are part of weekend maintenance work common to Metro systems, according to the transit agency. Officials announced the service change March 6 for implementation this weekend. The affected stations serve as primary transit connections for Reagan National Airport, making the disruption particularly significant for travelers catching flights or meeting arriving passengers. Metro agencies typically schedule major maintenance during weekends to minimize weekday commuter impact, though specific details about the maintenance work weren't provided.

Three Stations Require Bus Transfers

The shuttle bus service will operate at Crystal City, Potomac Yard, and Reagan National Airport stations throughout the weekend. Officials didn't release specific operating hours for the shuttle buses or how frequently they'll run between affected stations. The airport station serves as the primary Metro access point for Reagan National, while Crystal City provides an alternative connection just one stop away. Potomac Yard, a newer station on the line, also serves travelers heading to the airport area. Transit officials said riders should check schedules carefully but didn't specify where updated schedule information would be available.

Service Change Runs Through Weekend

The shuttle bus replacements take effect this weekend, officials confirmed, though specific start and end times weren't provided in the announcement. Metro systems typically begin weekend maintenance work Friday evening and restore regular service by Monday morning. Officials emphasized that travelers should build additional time into their airport trips but didn't specify how much extra time would be needed for the shuttle bus transfers.
Crystal City Metro station entrance with signage directing passengers to shuttle bus service

Riders Urged to Plan Ahead for Airport Trips

Air travelers and those meeting arriving passengers should arrive earlier than usual to account for shuttle bus service, officials said. The service disruption affects the most direct Metro route to Reagan National Airport, potentially adding minutes to typical commute times. Riders can check Moovit for real-time updates on shuttle bus locations and service status throughout the weekend. Officials encouraged passengers to verify their travel plans before heading to affected stations.