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Johannesburg, South Africa – United Airlines passengers experienced significant disruptions on Wednesday night as a widespread “technology issue” triggered a brief ground stop and resulted in widespread flight delays and cancellations. The incident, which impacted operations both domestically and internationally, left thousands of travellers stranded and frustrated.

According to reports, approximately 35% of United Airlines’ scheduled flights faced delays, while a further 4% were cancelled. While the ground stop has since been lifted, the airline continues to grapple with the ripple effect of the technical glitch, with knock-on delays expected to persist throughout the day.

What Happened?

United Airlines has been tight-lipped about the specifics of the “technology issue,” but early indications suggest it involved a critical system impacting flight dispatch and tracking. A ground stop is a measure taken by airlines to temporarily halt departures, allowing them to assess and resolve technical problems before resuming normal operations. This is a standard safety precaution, designed to prevent further complications and ensure the safety of passengers and crew.

Impact on Passengers

The impact on passengers has been considerable. Many were left waiting at airports for hours, receiving limited information about the status of their flights. Social media platforms were flooded with complaints from frustrated travellers, some of whom described chaotic scenes at major hubs.

“We’ve been sitting here for five hours with no updates,” tweeted one passenger from O.R. Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg. “United Airlines needs to get it together! This is ridiculous.”

United Airlines Response

In a statement, a United Airlines spokesperson apologised for the inconvenience caused and assured passengers that the airline was working diligently to resolve the issue and minimise further disruptions. They offered vouchers and rebooking options to affected passengers, but acknowledged that demand for alternative flights was high.

“We understand the frustration this has caused our customers, and we are doing everything we can to get them to their destinations as quickly and safely as possible,” the spokesperson said.

Ongoing Concerns & What to Expect

The incident raises concerns about the reliability of United Airlines’ technology infrastructure and the potential for similar disruptions in the future. Airlines are increasingly reliant on complex IT systems, and any failure can have significant consequences.

Passengers with upcoming flights on United Airlines are advised to check the airline's website or app for the latest updates on their flight status. Allowing extra time at the airport is also recommended to account for potential delays. The airline is expected to provide further details about the cause of the technical issue in the coming days.

South African Travellers Affected?

While the full extent of the impact on flights to and from South Africa is still being assessed, several flights to and from Johannesburg, Cape Town, and Durban were affected. Passengers are strongly advised to contact United Airlines directly for specific information regarding their flights.