Watch CBS News

Computer Problems Strand United Passengers At O'Hare

CHICAGO (CBS) – Computer problems were causing delays Friday night with United Airline's operations, impacting flights nationwide. O'Hare Airport in Chicago became snared with stranded passengers.

"At approximately 7:15 pm CT tonight, United Airlines experienced a computer outage interrupting the airline's flight departures, airport processing and reservations systems," the airline said in a written statement.

"Our technology team is working to resolve the issue as soon as possible.  We apologize for the disruption being caused to travelers at affected airports and we are seeking to resume operations as quickly as possible." 

Long lines of passengers could be seen at O'Hare, where United's self-serve check-in kiosks were down at one point. CBS 2's Pamela Jones encountered some of the angry travelers.

"I'm so cheesed-off," passenger Kasey Madden, who was trying to get to Minneapolis for her aunt's memorial service, said. "They just gave the first announcement in the two hours that I've been here ... They said you could fly tomorrow if you want and there'd be no penalties."

Madden said when she asked the United representative why it took so long to make an announcement, the employee responded: "We just found the megaphone."

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.