21 Jul 2024 | 07:05 AM UTC
Europe: Air, rail, commercial services recovering across region as of morning July 21 after widespread IT outages /update 3
Transport and business services recovering across Europe as of morning July 21 after widespread computer outages. Reconfirm services.
As of the morning of July 21, impacts related to a global Microsoft service outage continue to recede in Europe's air and rail travel, banking services, and telecommunications sectors. The outage began July 19, when a cybersecurity update reportedly interrupted many business computing systems. This triggered flight cancellations and disruptions to rail services, news transmission, banking services, retail payments, and government services, including medical appointments. Microsoft has deployed a fix to the issue.
Most flight services for airports and airlines across Europe have resumed, though some flight cancellations and delays are still likely as airlines work to relocate aircraft and work through the extensive backlog.
Rail services in Europe are likely to continue to experience lingering disruptions. In the UK, National Rail reported delays and cancellations that affected several train operators, including Avanti West Coast, c2c, Great Western Railway, and Northern. Lingering disruptions to electronic payments remain possible. Continued disruptions to business activity are probable even after regular services resume, as operations will probably take time to normalize.
Reconfirm flight and rail schedules. Do not check out of accommodations until onward travel is confirmed. Allow additional time for all air travel, and arrive at airports several hours prior to departure. Plan for business and telecommunications disruptions. Consider using alternative banks or payment methods, if possible, for urgent transactions. Stay updated on the status of internet and mobile banking services.
