UPDATE: IT failure hits trains and planes across Sussex
Both Gatwick Airport and GTR are warning of disruption this morning (Friday 17th)
Last updated 19th Jul 2024
Passengers catching trains and planes across Sussex are being told to expect disruption on Friday morning (July 17th) due to "widespread IT issues".
Overnight, Microsoft confirmed it was investigating an issue with its services and apps, with the tech giant's service health website warning of "service degradation" that meant users may not be able to access many of the company's most popular services, used by millions of business and people around the world.
Govia Thameslink Railway (GTR) - parent company of Southern, Thameslink, Gatwick Express and Great Northern - issued an alert on the brands' social media channels.
The message stated: "We are currently experiencing widespread IT issues across our entire network.
"Our IT teams are actively investigating to determine the root cause of the problem.
"We are unable to access driver diagrams at certain locations, leading to potential short-notice cancellations, particularly on the Thameslink and Great Northern networks.
"Additionally, other key systems, including our real-time customer information platforms, are also affected.
"We will provide additional updates when we can. In the meantime, please regularly check your journey before you travel."
The issue also affecting journeys to and from Gatwick Airport, with bosses there urging passengers to watch out for potential delays in check-in and through security.
Passengers are still being told to arrive at the West Sussex site as normal.