Communications failure disrupts rail travel across Britain

LONDON (AP) — Rail travelers across Britain faced disruption Friday after a fault in a radio system used by drivers and signalers nationwide prompted cancellations across the network.

The issue, which occurred during the busy morning commute, has led to “short-notice” delays and cancellations throughout the U.K., 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.