'No foreign actor involved': US transport secy blames router provider for aviation shutdown; normalcy exp - The Times of India

In a press briefing, the Transportation Secretary addressed concerns that arose after a nationwide disruption to airline communications and flight scheduling earlier this week. He explained that the shutdown was traced to a technical fault in a router service used by several airlines to manage flight data, and that investigations found no evidence of malicious interference from foreign governments or criminal groups. The official emphasized that the issue was purely a technical failure and that corrective measures have already been implemented to restore full functionality.

The Department of Transportation worked closely with the affected router provider to identify the root cause, which involved a software glitch that temporarily blocked data transmission between airline networks and air traffic control systems. Once the problem was isolated, engineers applied a patch that reestablished the data flow, allowing airlines to resume normal scheduling and passenger boarding processes. The secretary assured the public that safety protocols remained intact throughout the incident and that no aircraft were put at risk.

Airlines have issued statements confirming that flight operations are returning to normal and that passengers can expect regular service in the coming days. The incident has prompted a review of the reliance on third‑party technology providers within the aviation sector, with regulators indicating that additional oversight may be introduced to prevent similar disruptions. Stakeholders are also calling for increased transparency about the technical infrastructure that underpins critical transportation services, aiming to build confidence among travelers and industry partners.