Delta Air Lines faced significant disruptions on Monday, canceling hundreds of flights as it continued to recover from a global software outage that caused delays and cancellations over the past few days.
On Sunday alone, the Atlanta-based airline canceled 1,300 flights and delayed 1,600, as reported by FlightAware. This followed a staggering cancellation of over 3,500 Delta and Delta Connection flights between Friday and Saturday, impacting travelers globally.
By Monday morning, Delta had already canceled 626 flights and delayed 144, accounting for approximately 20% of its planned operations. In contrast, American Airlines reported only 38 canceled flights and 155 delays, which is about 5% of its schedule.
The problems began after a faulty software update by cybersecurity firm CrowdStrike late Thursday affected Microsoft’s Windows operating systems, leaving corporate clients with inaccessible systems. Many users encountered severe issues, including the notorious “Blue Screen of Death.”
The effects of the outage rippled across multiple industries, with healthcare, delivery services, retail, and finance feeling the impact. However, airlines, particularly Delta, experienced the most significant disruptions. On Friday alone, over 46,000 flights were delayed and 5,171 canceled nationally.
Delta CEO Ed Bastian expressed apologies for the inconvenience caused, emphasizing that cancellations are a last resort for the airline. He acknowledged the challenges faced by travelers and stressed Delta’s commitment to connecting the world.
Bastian explained that Delta relies on numerous applications using Microsoft Windows, including a vital crew tracking system that struggled to adapt after the system failure. In response to the disruption, Delta has provided travel waivers allowing customers to change flights with no fees, along with meal vouchers, hotel accommodations, and transportation support.
Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttigieg commented on social media about the numerous complaints regarding Delta’s management of the situation. He asserted that the airline must ensure refunds, offer free rebooking options, and provide prompt reimbursements for any incurred expenses related to food and lodging.
Buttigieg emphasized that travelers should not be left stranded overnight at airports or face lengthy waits on customer service lines for assistance.