This unexpected global IT glitch caused significant disruptions to travel plans on a busy Friday, impacting airlines, train services, hotels, and theme parks worldwide. Here’s a breakdown of what happened and how it affected travelers:
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The Culprit: A Faulty Software Update
The culprit behind the chaos was a software update issued by CrowdStrike, a major cybersecurity firm. This update triggered a glitch that rendered many Windows PCs unusable, displaying the infamous “blue screen of death.”
Airlines Take Flight… or Not
The tech glitch significantly impacted airlines globally. In the United States, airlines like American, Delta, and United implemented ground stops, leading to cancellations and delays. Delta led with over 800 cancellations, exceeding a fifth of its global operations. Internationally, major airlines in the UK (British Airways, Virgin Atlantic), France (Air France), and Germany (Lufthansa) also reported cancellations and delays.
Beyond Airports: A Ripple Effect
The outage’s effects went beyond air travel. Train services, hotels, and theme parks also faced disruptions. TPG reports documented instances of Disneyland Paris resorting to paper printouts for ride wait times and restaurants displaying error screens.
What Travelers Should Do
If your flight is affected:
- Stay Informed: Download your airline’s app and monitor your flight status regularly. Sign up for notifications to receive updates on any changes.
- Track Your Aircraft: Use Flightradar24 to track your aircraft’s location and gauge the likelihood of your flight’s departure on time.
- Prepare for Long Hold Times: Calling airlines might not be ideal due to high call volumes. Utilize the app or website for rebooking options.
- Know Your Rights: If your flight is canceled, airlines should rebook you automatically. You can also proactively search for alternative flights. Under US DOT policy, you’re entitled to a refund if you choose not to fly. EU261 compensation wouldn’t apply here as the issue lies beyond airlines’ control.
- Be Patient and Understanding: If your flight remains “on time,” stick to the original schedule but allow extra time for check-in and security. Recognize that clearing this backlog could take days with such a busy travel period. Be patient and kind with airline and airport staff.
Travel Advisories and Resources
Most airlines have implemented travel advisories allowing flexibility in changing tickets. Passengers affected by cancellations or delays are entitled to compensation for meals, hotels, and ground transportation as per DOT regulations (refer to FlightRights.gov).