June 20, 2007
Local media reports in Chicago say a computer malfunction has shutdown United Airlines' system, resulting in passengers trapped aboard planes sitting on airport tarmacs. United is based in Chicago.
WBBM-TV reported that the reason for the system-wide computer failure is unknown. The station said airline and local aviation officials were not immediately available for comment.
According to WBBM, one passenger identified as John Jones emailed the station from the cabin of a jetliner. The email said the captain of the Chicago to Los Angeles flight had announced a computer crash was the reason for the flights delay in taking off.
At last report, the plane was still sitting on the runway at Chicagos OHare Airport.
