A system-wide central computer outage has caused delays to flights throughout the Alaska Airlines and Horizon Air network.

The airline's central computer went down about 3 a.m. Saturday. Although it was back up just before 2 p.m., the schedule could not be sorted out right away. Many passengers were routed to other airlines, causing backups at LAX and other airports in Orange County, Seattle, WA, and Portland, OR.

The company is asking that those set to travel Saturday check their flight status prior to leaving for the airport as many flights have been canceled or delayed 2 hours or more.

Because of these disruptions, pets and unaccompanied minors may only travel on nonstop itineraries. They will not be accepted on direct or connecting flights.

Alaska Airlines is allowing passengers to reschedule flights without incurring standard change fees. Customers also have the option of requesting a full refund should they choose not to travel.

Those who were planning to travel on Alaska Airlines are asked to call Alaska Airlines Reservations at 1-800-ALASKAAIR (1-800-252-7522) or Horizon Air Reservations at 1-800-547-9308. Those who booked through Alaska Airlines Vacations are asked to contact the Vacations Desk at 1 (800) 468-2248.