The Department of Transportation is currently investigating Delta Air Lines to ensure that the airline is adequately addressing consumer concerns, as it continues to cancel flights following last week’s global technology issues.
Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg emphasized that all airline passengers are entitled to fair treatment, stating on social media that his department had received “hundreds of complaints” regarding Delta’s handling of the situation.
The Atlanta-based airline has experienced challenges in restoring full operations after a flawed software update from cybersecurity firm CrowdStrike caused significant disruptions globally. This update impacted Microsoft’s Windows operating systems, leaving many corporate users struggling with system access and encountering issues like the infamous “Blue Screen of Death.”
The tech incident affected nearly every major industry, including healthcare, delivery services, retail, and finance. However, airlines and airports suffered particularly severe consequences. On Friday alone, over 46,000 flights were delayed and an additional 5,171 flights were canceled, with Delta being the hardest hit.
Delta reported canceling about 3,500 flights over Friday and Saturday. The airline had to cancel more than 2,500 flights on Sunday and Monday and delayed another 3,441. As of Tuesday, FlightAware indicated that 738 flights had also been canceled or delayed.
In a statement, Delta CEO Ed Bastian expressed regret for the situation, stating that “canceling a flight is always a last resort.” He acknowledged the difficulties faced by travelers due to these disruptions and assured customers that Delta is dedicated to connecting the world.
Bastian noted that a significant number of Delta’s applications rely on Microsoft Windows, including a crucial crew tracking tool that struggled with the changes caused by the system outage. In response to the disruptions, Delta has implemented a travel waiver that allows customers to change their flights without penalty, in addition to offering meal vouchers, hotel accommodations, and transportation.