Data outbreaks by airlines across the United States cause long lines, delays
Passengers depart at New York's LaGuardia airport on March 13, 2019. LaGuardia was among the airports affected by the data flow. (Frank Franklin II / AP)
Luz Lazo
Transport reporter covering the Washington Metro, buses, Capital Bikeshare and taxis, and the region's road network
A computer equipment is Saber, a company that uses airlines for reservations, luggage tags and check-in, experienced computer problems, airline officials, and it affects the check-in process at several airports.
Saber described the problem as "a system problem" that affected some of its customers, but normal operations were back on Tuesday afternoon.
"Technical teams were immediately obliged. Customers report normal operations," the statement says. "We apologize to those affected."
Passengers reported major hub failures, including LaGuardia airport in New York, San Francis co International and Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International in Florida. Passengers met long lines and many reported waiting times of more than two hours.
Officials with American Airlines said that computer problems were only short-lived and that they did not affect the airline's flights.
"Earlier today, Saber had a short technical problem that affected several operators, including American Airlines. This technical issue has been solved. We apologize to our customers for the inconvenience," the airline said in a statement.
In customer tweets, JetBlue said the airline's crew were on their way to helping customers with problems with online check-in. A call for comment was not immediately returned.
In a tweet shortly after noon, the airline said: "All JetBlue systems are being restored after a temporary outbreak of Saber systems affecting several airlines. We apologize for the inconvenience. Please try again soon."
Passengers tweeted images of long lines, with many growing frustrated because they could not get boarding passes. Some passengers also reported issues on the airline's websites and mobile applications.
