The Department of Transportation has launched an investigation into Delta Air Lines to ensure that the airline is adequately addressing consumer concerns following a series of flight cancellations linked to a global tech outage.
In a social media statement, Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttigieg emphasized that all airline passengers deserve fair treatment and vowed to uphold that right. He noted that his department has received “hundreds of complaints” regarding Delta’s handling of the situation following the tech disruptions.
Delta, based in Atlanta, has faced challenges in restoring its operations after a problematic software update from cybersecurity company CrowdStrike last Thursday affected numerous businesses worldwide. The update contained a flaw that affected Microsoft’s Windows operating systems, leading to significant access issues for corporate users, who at times experienced the notorious “Blue Screen of Death.”
The incident impacted nearly all major industries, including healthcare, delivery services, retail, and financial sectors, but the airline industry suffered the most. On Friday, over 46,000 flights were delayed, and an additional 5,171 were canceled, according to FlightAware, with Delta being the most affected.
Over the weekend, Delta reported canceling approximately 3,500 flights. By Sunday and Monday, the airline had canceled more than 2,500 flights and had to delay an additional 3,441. On Tuesday alone, 738 flights were either canceled or delayed, as reported by FlightAware.
Delta CEO Ed Bastian issued an apology to affected travelers, emphasizing that cancellations are always a last resort. He acknowledged the difficulties caused by these disruptions and reiterated Delta’s mission to connect people globally.
Bastian highlighted that Delta relies heavily on various Microsoft Windows applications, crucial for operations like crew tracking, which were hampered by the tech outage. To assist affected customers, Delta has introduced a travel waiver allowing free flight changes and is also providing meal vouchers, hotel accommodations, and transportation.