Travelers using rail services across the United Kingdom experienced significant disruptions on Friday, caused by a malfunction in a communication system utilized by both drivers and signaling staff nationwide.

The incident, which took place during the peak morning commute hours, resulted in widespread delays and cancellations, as reported by National Rail, the organization representing various train operating companies.

Several lines were significantly impacted, including the Elizabeth Line, which serves Heathrow Airport, and the Gatwick Express, connecting the city with its second-largest airport.

Primarily, the problem seems to occur as trains are about to depart from their depots at the beginning of their routes. However, once the trains are on the move, operations tend to function normally, according to National Rail.

The issue is linked to the inability of train drivers to communicate with the signaling centers, leading some companies, such as South Western Railway, to explain that a system reset is required before a train can initiate its journey.