Air cargo operations have been impacted by the IT disruption that has seen computer systems malfunction at airlines and airports worldwide.
The disruption is understood to have been caused by a Microsoft IT outage triggered by a software update from cyber security company Crowdstrike.
In Europe, cargo hub Amsterdam Airport Schiphol confirmed it has been affected by the IT issues. The airport posted an update its website that stated: “There is currently a global computer failure. This disruption also has an impact on flights to and from Schiphol.”
The airport did not specify which flights have been affected.
Lufthansa Cargo said on its website that cargo handling operations are impacted, including at Frankfurt and Munich airports.
“Due to an IT malfunction, there are currently disruptions in global air traffic. Lufthansa Cargo is one of the many airlines affected. The handling processes at Lufthansa Cargo’s hubs in Frankfurt and Munich amongst others are currently heavily affected. We are working at full speed to rectify the disruption. Due to the disruptions, delays and flight cancellations are to be expected during the course of the day.”
“We are constantly monitoring and discussing the dynamic situation with our system partners with the aim of continuing to offer you stable solutions for the transportation of your freight.”
Heathrow Airport, the UK’s busiest air cargo hub, has also been experiencing technology problems, though it declined to comment on air cargo operations specifically.
A Heathrow spokesperson said: “Microsoft is currently experiencing a global outage which is impacting select systems at Heathrow. Flights are operational and we are implementing contingency plans to minimise any impact on journeys.”
US airlines have also been affected, including Delta, United and American Airlines.
Delta said in a July 19 update: “All Delta flights are paused as we work through a vendor technology issue.” Meanwhile, United Cargo had an error message on its website.
American Airlines appears to have begun operating flights again, although the status of its air cargo ground handling operations is not yet clear. The airline said in a post on X today: “Earlier this morning, a technical issue with a vendor impacted multiple carriers, including American. As of 5:00 a.m. ET, we have been able to safely re-establish our operation. We apologize to our customers for the inconvenience.”
Cargolux sent a message to customers, noting that while its flights were not impacted, some services are.
“Clients are kindly invited to reach out via phone or email for quotes and booking requests and will be notified of any changes to the current situation,” it said.
Dubai International Airport said it had resumed normal operations, but passengers noted on social media there were delays.
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As this a fluid situation, the PSA BDP team will continue to provide updates as they become available. In the meantime, please reach out to your local PSA BDP representative for any questions or concerns you may have.
