Airlines and airports around the world are experiencing travel disruption after a major Microsoft technical outage this morning (July 19). Certain banks, retail stores and other businesses are also affected as well as GDSs Amadeus and Travelport.
The cause of the outages is still unclear, but it appears to be linked to Microsoft and Crowdstrike. Outages can be created by several causes and Microsoft has named it as a technical issue rather than a cyber incident.
Major US carriers including American Airlines, Delta Air Lines and United Airlines have issued ground stops, citing communication issues, reports Reuters.
All Delta flights are currently paused. “Any customers whose flights are impacted will be notified by Delta via the Fly Delta app and text message. Customers should use the app for updates,” the airline said.
According to Sky News, major UK airports such as Heathrow and Gatwick have reported issues and some have warned of delays and disruption.
Other airports and airlines worldwide have also been affected, including Spain, Germany, Ireland, Singapore, Hong Kong, Australia, and the Netherlands.
Train companies across the UK are also reporting issues and warned of potential short-notice train cancellations.
Some global media are reporting that this is the most serious IT outage the world has ever seen.