Global Tech Outage: Airlines, Businesses, and Border Crossings Affected
A major internet outage, linked to Microsoft, has disrupted flights and operations worldwide. Despite Microsoft’s efforts to resolve the issue, disruptions persisted.
A global technology outage, triggered by a faulty software update, grounded flights, disrupted media outlets, hospitals, small businesses, and government offices. The central cause was identified as a flawed update from CrowdStrike, a cybersecurity firm.
Starbucks Ordering System Affected
Customers couldn’t place orders online or via mobile at Starbucks. The company apologized, stating most stores and drive-thrus were operational.
Hospitals and Healthcare Disrupted
Healthcare providers in the U.S., Canada, and England faced significant disruptions. Some hospitals canceled procedures, and visits were suspended in certain locations. However, emergency services remained operational in many areas.
Flight Cancellations and Delays
Air travelers faced significant disruptions, with major airlines grounding flights. United and other airlines issued waivers for travel plan changes.
Border Crossing Delays
Border crossings into the U.S. experienced delays, affecting both pedestrians and vehicles. Canadian and Mexican crossings reported significant wait times.
About CrowdStrike
CrowdStrike, a leading cybersecurity firm, provides software globally. The company was founded in 2011 and has shown significant growth in recent years.
Court Operations Disrupted
Courts in Massachusetts and New York reported delays and disruptions due to the outage. Proceedings, including a high-profile case in Manhattan, were affected.
Minimal Impact on Southern California Flights and Ports
John Wayne Airport and Southern California ports saw some disruptions but continued operations with minimal impact.
Driver’s License Offices Closed
Texas closed all driver’s license offices, and New York’s DMV experienced service disruptions. Georgia also reported outages in its driver services.
Expert Insight
Andrew Sullivan from the Internet Society emphasized the inevitability of future outages and the importance of resilience and learning from such events.
FAA Updates
The FAA lifted some ground stop orders, but many passengers remained stranded. United Airlines began resuming flights with issued waivers.
Health Care Impact
In Los Angeles, Cedars-Sinai continued to provide care despite the outage. Harris Health System in Houston suspended visits and canceled procedures but later resumed clinic appointments.
Times Square Billboards Affected
Some Times Square billboards went dark due to the outage, though most were back to normal by noon.
Emergency Surgery Canceled
An emergency open heart surgery in Kentucky was canceled, causing significant concern for the affected family.
Houston Hospitals
Hospitals in Houston suspended visits and canceled elective procedures but resumed clinic appointments later.
