A major IT outage linked to cybersecurity company CrowdStrike has disrupted services globally, affecting Microsoft's Windows operating system.
Image: WAtoday
The widespread impact has caused significant delays and cancellations in various sectors across the world.
Aviation Disruptions
Image: CNA/Marcus Mark Ramos
In Asia, airports in Singapore, Bangkok, Hong Kong, and India are experiencing long queues at check-in counters. Jetstar Japan has canceled or delayed some domestic flights. Singapore's Changi Airport announced on 19 July, 2024, that the outage has forced some airlines to switch to manual check-in processes, affecting carriers like Singapore Airlines and Scoot. Malaysia’s AirAsia and railway operator KTMB are also hit.
In the US, major airlines including Delta, United, and American Airlines have grounded all flights. The disruption extends to airports in Australia, Spain, and Germany.
Broader Impact
Image: NBC News/Sean Rai, Reuters
The outage has affected businesses beyond aviation. The London Stock Exchange delayed its opening, and media outlets like Sky News in the UK and Australia’s ABC faced broadcasting challenges.
In Singapore, companies like ComfortDelGro, The Straits Times, Singapore Post, DBS, Singtel, M1, and Grab had reported issues with their IT systems as well.
Microsoft is taking mitigation actions to address the service disruptions caused by the CrowdStrike issue.
Managing the Situation
Image: The Daily Telegraph, X/@ruffleseed
To navigate this situation:
Exercise patience and flexibility: Expect delays and disruptions. Avoid taking negative emotions out on another service staff as this is a global outage.
Make alternative plans: Have backup options ready in case your original plan cannot be achieved due to the global IT systems outage.
Prepare alternative payment methods: Some electronic systems may be down and thus, your preferred mode of payment may not be available.
Arrive earlier: If flying, arrive at the airport well in advance to accommodate manual processes and additional checks.
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