I don’t have live access to current flight data from here, but based on recent patterns and credible sources, there are a few common reasons jets fly over Washington, DC on any given day:

• NORAD/Defense Exercises: The National Capital Region occasionally hosts authorized defense drills or readiness exercises that involve aircraft patrols or intercept training. These events are usually publicly announced by NORAD or the U.S. military and are designed to test air sovereignty and response times. If a drill is underway, residents might hear multiple jets in quick succession or see unusual flight routes. [web results referencing NORAD exercises and DC flyovers]
• Military or Ceremonial Flyovers: In commemoration of national events, anniversaries, or official visits, military aircraft from the Blue Angels, Thunderbirds, or allied air forces may perform scheduled flyovers. These are typically publicized by local outlets and official channels. [web results discussing Blue Angels/DC flyovers]
• Special Events or Fleet Week: Periodically, events like Fleet Week or international air shows bring military aircraft to the area for demonstrations or participation in ceremonies, which can lead to conspicuous air activity around DC. [web results mentioning DC flyovers and events]
• Weather or Traffic Diversions: Occasionally, jets may roam or re-route due to weather, airspace restrictions, or temporary detours, though this usually involves coordinated airspace management and local notices. [general aviation context; not tied to a specific event in every case]

What you can check right now to confirm the reason:

• Check official sources:
  • NORAD or U.S. Northern Command social media or press releases for any current exercises in the National Capital Region.
  • The U.S. Navy or Air Force public affairs for any announced flyovers or scheduled demonstrations.
  • Local news stations (e.g., FOX 5 DC, NBC DC) for real-time reports or alerts about the day’s activity and any stated purposes.
• Look for real-time alerts:
  • Alert DC and local government advisories may note authorized air activity or temporary restrictions.
  • Local airport notices or NOTAMs can indicate planned military operations or airspace changes affecting DC.
• Consider the date and context:
  • If today coincides with a known anniversary, Fleet Week, or other national event, that increases the likelihood of a ceremonial or demonstration flyover.

If you’d like, I can look up the latest publicly available notices and news to confirm the exact reason for today’s DC air activity.