The Department of Transportation is currently investigating Delta Air Lines to ensure the airline is adequately addressing consumer concerns following a series of flight cancellations that occurred after a global technology outage last week.
Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg stated on social media that “all airline passengers have the right to be treated fairly, and I will make sure that right is upheld.” He noted that the Department had received “hundreds of complaints” regarding Delta’s handling of the situation following the outages.
Delta Air Lines, based in Atlanta, has faced challenges in restoring operations following a software update issue from cybersecurity firm CrowdStrike effected late Thursday. This software flaw impacted Microsoft’s Windows operating systems, leaving many corporate users unable to access their systems and in some instances facing the infamous “Blue Screen of Death.”
The incident disrupted numerous industries, including healthcare, delivery services, retail, and finance. Airlines and airports experienced significant disruptions, with over 46,000 flights delayed and 5,171 canceled on Friday alone, according to data from FlightAware, with Delta being the most affected.
The airline reported canceling approximately 3,500 flights on Friday and Saturday. On Sunday and Monday, Delta canceled more than 2,500 flights and delayed another 3,441. As of Tuesday, the airline had already experienced 738 canceled or delayed flights.
Delta CEO Ed Bastian expressed regret over the flight cancellations, stating, “Canceling a flight is always a last resort, and something we don’t take lightly. I want to apologize to everyone who has been impacted by these events. Delta is in the business of connecting the world, and we understand how difficult it can be when your travels are disrupted.”
Bastian indicated that Delta relies on a “significant number of applications” utilizing Microsoft Windows, including one for crew tracking that was unable to adjust to the changes caused by the incident. To alleviate the situation, Delta has implemented a travel waiver allowing customers to change their flights without extra fees, and it is providing meal vouchers, hotel accommodations, and transportation options.