A nationwide problem affecting U.S. Customs and Border Protection computers created long lines at LAX and other airports around the country Friday.
“@CBP systems are experiencing an issue which appears to be impacting multiple airports including LAX,” airport officials tweeted at 1:33 p.m. “Officers are processing passengers manually so please check with your airline for the latest status of any flight impacts. More details as they become available.”
Shortly after 2 p.m., CBP officials confirmed the problem on Twitter: “CBP is experiencing a temporary outage with its processing systems at various air ports of entry & is taking immediate action to address the technology disruption. CBP officers continue to process international travelers using alternative procedures until systems are back online.
“CBP officers are working to process travelers as quickly as possible while maintaining the highest levels of security,” officials said.
LAX officials said they were deploying staff to customs areas to help direct guests and provide other assistance.
By 3 p.m., the system was being restored, according to the airport.
“@CBP systems are slowly getting back to normal and officers have processed the majority of waiting passengers at LAX with no significant impacts to flights. Thank you for your patience,” LAX tweeted.
Media reports indicated that John F. Kennedy Airport in New York and Dulles International Airport near Washington, D.C., were experiencing similar problems.