[Avionics Today 03-22-2016] Issues with computer systems in Japan delayed thousands of flights at more than 50 airports across Japan on Tuesday, March 22. According to a statement released by the country’s flagship carrier All Nippon Airways (ANA), the airline experienced a “system malfunction” with its flight check-in systems at 8:20 a.m. local time at Tokyo’s Haneda Airport.
“We would like to inform our customers that our check-in, reservation and sales system for domestic flights has experienced a system malfunction as of 8:20 am local time, March 22, 2016. We are currently trying to determine and solve the problem as quickly as possible, however, we regret that unavoidably delays and cancellations may result from these system issues,” the statement read, noting that seat maps, new reservations, reservation changes, and payments would not be available for domestic flights.
The Japan Times reported that the glitch has impacted more than 120 domestic fights, leaving nearly 16,000 people stranded. Four other domestic airlines — Starflyer, Airdo, Solaseed Air and Ibex Airlines — share the same check-in system and experienced the same issue.