On August 7, 2025, United Airlines requested a nationwide ground stop affecting several of its major hub airports, including Chicago (ORD), Newark (EWR), Houston (IAH), and San Francisco (SFO). This sudden decision impacted all mainline United flights, though regional carriers remained unaffected.
Cause: A Technology Glitch
According to NBC News senior producer Jay Blackman, the problem stems from a computer system failure. While full technical details are still emerging, early reports suggest the issue may involve weight and balance calculations—critical data pilots need before takeoff.
Flights already in the air have continued to their destinations without interruption. However, departures from ground locations have been temporarily held. The airline has confirmed it is working urgently to resolve the issue.
“It sounds like a computer issue… these can last just a few minutes, or a few hours,” Blackman noted.
How Long Will It Last?
Ground stops due to software malfunctions are rare but not unprecedented. Depending on the severity, such interruptions can last anywhere from 10 minutes to several hours. Delays may ripple through the system, especially for connecting flights.
If you’re planning to fly today—or waiting for someone to arrive—expect delays and monitor airline updates.
What Is a Ground Stop?
A ground stop is a Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) order that halts all departures from specific airports or airlines due to a safety or operational concern. In this case, United initiated its own stop as a precautionary measure.
Public Reaction
Reactions to the news have been mixed. While some passengers voiced frustration, others applauded the airline’s emphasis on safety.
“Respect to United for putting safety ahead of profits,” wrote one user on social media.
“If anything, it should be reassuring that the airline is going through the necessary steps,” another added.
Critics have also called out the media for using alarmist language. “Why is this cornball saying a ground stop is terrifying?” one comment said. “I’d be happy they’re prioritizing safety.”
What Happens Next?
United has not provided an official estimate for when full operations will resume. However, technicians are actively working to restore the affected systems. Meanwhile, federal aviation authorities are monitoring the situation closely, and passenger safety remains the top priority.
Travelers are advised to:
- Check their flight status regularly
- Expect cascading delays at connecting airports
- Allow for extra time at the airport
Summary
- Issue: Technology glitch affecting United’s mainline flights
- Status: Departures held, in-air flights continue
- Airports affected: Chicago, Newark, Houston, San Francisco, others
- Flights affected: Mainline only (not regional)
- Public reaction: Mixed, with growing support for United’s safety-first approach
- Next steps: Awaiting system fix and resumed departures
