U.S. Mandates Special Airports for Congo-Uganda Travelers
Published Date: 5/21/2026
Rule
Summary
Starting May 21, 2026, all flights to the U.S. carrying people who’ve been in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Uganda, or South Sudan within the last 21 days must land at specific airports with extra health checks. This rule helps stop the spread of Ebola by focusing public health resources where they’re needed most. Flights with only crew or cargo aren’t affected, and these restrictions stay until the government says otherwise.
Analyzed Economic Effects
3 provisions identified: 1 benefits, 2 costs, 0 mixed.
30-day CDC entry suspension
On May 18, 2026, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention issued an order suspending the right to introduce into the United States for a period of 30 days certain persons who departed from, or were otherwise present within, the DRC, Uganda, or South Sudan during the last 21 days. That order blocks the introduction of those persons into the U.S. for 30 days from the order date as described.
Directed landings at Dulles (IAD)
Starting for flights departing after 11:59 p.m. EDT on May 20, 2026 (effective May 21, 2026), any flight to the U.S. that carries a person who departed from or was present in the DRC, Uganda, or South Sudan within the prior 21 days must land at Washington‑Dulles International Airport (IAD) in Virginia. Crew-only and cargo-only flights are excluded. The requirement stays in effect until the Secretary cancels or changes it.
DOW (military) flights managed separately
Flights operated or contracted by the Department of War (DOW), including military aircraft or contract flights, are excepted from the DHS-directed arrival restriction and will be managed by DOW in accordance with HHS guidelines. The DHS direction applies to operators of other aircraft.
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Key Dates
Department and Agencies
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