Delta Air Lines faced significant operational challenges on Monday, canceling hundreds of flights as it struggled to recover from a global software outage that caused widespread disruptions over the weekend.
The Atlanta-based airline canceled 1,300 flights on Sunday and delayed an additional 1,600, according to FlightAware data. Previous reports indicated that Delta had canceled over 3,500 flights involving both Delta and Delta Connection services from Friday to Saturday.
By Monday morning, approximately 626 Delta flights had been canceled and 144 postponed, equating to nearly 20% of the airline’s scheduled operations. In comparison, American Airlines managed to cancel only 38 flights and delay 155, amounting to about 5% of its planned services.
The troubles began due to a failed software update from cybersecurity firm CrowdStrike late Thursday night, which disrupted Microsoft’s Windows operating systems. This defect left corporate users, including those in airlines, unable to access critical systems, sometimes resulting in the infamous “Blue Screen of Death.”
The incident had far-reaching effects across various sectors, impacting healthcare providers, delivery companies, retailers, and financial institutions. Airlines experienced the most severe consequences, with over 46,000 flights delayed and 5,171 cancellations reported on Friday alone. Delta was particularly affected by these disruptions.
Delta CEO Ed Bastian expressed regret over the situation in a statement, stating, “Canceling a flight is always a last resort, and something we don’t take lightly,” and apologized to all customers impacted by the chaos. He emphasized Delta’s commitment to connecting the world and acknowledged the difficulties caused by such disruptions.
Bastian noted that many of Delta’s applications depend on Microsoft Windows, which included a crucial crew tracking tool that failed to function properly post-outage. In response, Delta implemented a travel waiver allowing customers to change flights without charge, along with offering meal vouchers, hotel accommodations, and transportation.
Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg remarked on social media that his department received “hundreds of complaints” regarding Delta’s handling of the situation. He emphasized the necessity for Delta to issue refunds, offer free rebookings, and provide timely reimbursements for affected individuals’ meals and lodging.
“No one should be stranded at an airport overnight or stuck on hold for hours waiting to talk to a customer service agent,” Buttigieg stated.