American Airlines, Alaska, JetBlue Resume Operations After Computer Outage

Another major – albeit brief – computer outage left thousands of passengers unable to check into flights on multiple airlines midday Monday.

American Airlines, Alaska Airlines, and JetBlue Airways resumed normal operations around 2 p.m. EDT after a computer systems failure halted operations for over an hour. The problem impacted the airlines’ reservations and operations systems and was similar to a problem that occurred last month.

“Earlier today, Sabre had a brief technical issue that impacted multiple carriers, including American,” American said in an e-mailed statement. “This technical issue has been resolved.”

During the outage, passengers were unable to check into flights and gate agents couldn’t board flights.

“A system outage is affecting our guests ability to purchase tickets or check-in online/via airport kiosks,” Alaska Airlines said on its website earlier on Monday. “This outage affects alaskaair.com, our call centers, and the airport.”

Meanwhile, passengers took to social media to vent their frustrations.

“@AmericanAir computers are down nationwide,” said one passenger, Chris, on Twitter. “Nobody can check in or board and all flights r grounded. Long lines at Chicago O’Hare #ORD #AA.”

(Photo: Accura Media Group)