Radio system failure halts UK trains: Airports and major rail routes hit hard across Britain

Britain’s train network grinds to a halt: Nationwide rail delays and cancellations leave commuters stranded across the UK

Rail travellers across Britain faced disruption Friday after a fault in a radio system used by drivers and signallers nationwide prompted cancellations across the network.

Travellers look at the information board at Victoria Station in London, Friday, Dec. 6, 2024 as rail travellers across Britain are facing disruption after a fault in a radio system used by drivers and signalers nationwide prompted cancellations across the network. (AP Photo)

The issue, which occurred during the busy morning commute, has led to “short-notice” delays and cancellations throughout the UK, according to National Rail, which represents train operating companies. Lines affected include the Elizabeth Line serving London’s Heathrow Airport and the Gatwick Express to the capital’s second-biggest airport.

The fault mainly affects trains as they are preparing to leave the depot at the start of their journeys, but trains can run normally once they are underway, National Rail said.

“This is because it is preventing our train drivers from contacting the respective signaling center this morning and a reset is having to be performed before the train can start its journey,” South Western Railway reported.