The U.S. Department of Transportation is currently investigating Delta Air Lines to ensure it is properly addressing consumer needs following a series of flight cancellations resulting from a recent global technology outage.
Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg emphasized the importance of fair treatment for airline passengers in a statement on social media Tuesday, noting that his department has received numerous complaints regarding Delta’s handling of the situation.
Delta, headquartered in Atlanta, has struggled to resume regular operations after a problematic software update by cybersecurity firm CrowdStrike disrupted services worldwide last week. This update caused issues with Microsoft’s Windows operating systems, leaving many corporate users unable to access their systems, and some experienced the infamous “Blue Screen of Death.”
The incident affected nearly every major industry, including healthcare, retail, delivery services, and financial institutions, with airlines and airports experiencing significant setbacks. On Friday alone, over 46,000 flights were delayed and another 5,171 were canceled, with Delta being the most impacted airline.
On Friday and Saturday, Delta canceled approximately 3,500 flights, and between Sunday and Monday, more than 2,500 flights were canceled, alongside 3,441 delays. As of Tuesday, an additional 738 flights faced cancellations or delays.
Delta CEO Ed Bastian expressed regret in a statement, stating, “Canceling a flight is always a last resort, and something we don’t take lightly. I want to apologize to everyone affected by these events.” He explained that the airline relies heavily on various Microsoft Windows applications, including tools for crew tracking that were unable to adapt to the disruption caused by the system failure. To assist customers, Delta has introduced a travel waiver allowing for free flight changes and is providing meal vouchers, hotel accommodations, and transportation options.