The Department of Transportation is conducting an investigation into Delta Air Lines to ensure the airline is properly addressing consumer needs following widespread flight cancellations triggered by a recent global technology outage.
Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttigieg emphasized the right of airline passengers to fair treatment, stating on social media, “I will make sure that right is upheld.” He noted that his department has received “hundreds of complaints” regarding Delta’s response to the tech disruptions.
Delta Air Lines, based in Atlanta, has been struggling to return to normal operations after a faulty software update by cybersecurity firm CrowdStrike led to significant issues globally. A defect in this update affected Microsoft’s Windows operating systems, disabling corporate users and in some cases causing the infamous “Blue Screen of Death.”
The tech incident impacted nearly all major sectors, including healthcare, delivery services, retail, and financial institutions, but airlines and airports faced the most severe disruptions. FlightAware reported that over 46,000 flights were delayed, with an additional 5,171 cancellations occurring on Friday alone, heavily affecting Delta.
In total, Delta canceled approximately 3,500 flights on Friday and Saturday, with more than 2,500 cancellations on Sunday and Monday. The airline also delayed 3,441 flights during that period. On Tuesday, there were already 738 cancellations or delays reported.
Delta CEO Ed Bastian expressed regret for the disruptions, 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 mentioned that Delta relies on numerous applications that use Microsoft Windows, including tools for tracking crew members, which were hindered by the system failures. To assist customers, Delta has introduced a travel waiver allowing free flight changes, while also providing meal vouchers, hotel accommodations, and transportation options.