KLM halts most flights due to worldwide Windows outage
Dutch airline KLM said it will suspend most of its operations on Friday while it sorts out a solution to handle a computer systems outage affecting companies and organizations worldwide, including air carriers.
The issue lies with the cybersecurity company Crowdstrike. Windows uses its cybersecurity software. A recent update is causing Windows computers worldwide to constantly restart, also known as a boot loop. There are reports from all over the world.
The software provides protection against cyber threats like ransomware and has extensive rights on the system, so issues can have a major impact on a computer. Because the Crowdstrike software runs on both Windows computers and servers, the impact could be massive
“KLM, like other airlines and airports, has also been affected by the global outage, making it impossible to handle flights,” a representative told NL Times. In a prepared statement, the airline noted the seriousness of the situation with the summer holiday season underway.
“We realize that, especially given the summer vacations, this is extremely inconvenient for our customers. We are working hard to resolve the problem. For now, we are forced to suspend most of the operation,” KLM said.
Transavia reported that the outage is impacting its check-in systems. The airline expects a “messy day” due to the malfunction combined with the summer vacation crowds. The airline hadn’t had to cancel flights by 10:00 a.m., but the outage will “certainly have an impact on our operations,” a spokesperson told ANP.
Air France is also experiencing problems. “Air France confirms that operations have been disrupted due to a global IT problem that is mainly affecting several airlines and airports around the world. Flights that are already in the air will not be affected. The company’s IT teams are working to resolve the issue as quickly as possible,” the airline said in a statement.
