The Department of Transportation is currently investigating Delta Air Lines to ensure that the airline is adequately addressing consumer issues following numerous flight cancellations due to a global tech outage that occurred last week.
Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg emphasized on social media that all airline passengers deserve fair treatment and is committed to upholding that right. Buttigieg mentioned that the department had received substantial complaints regarding Delta’s response to the tech disruptions.
Delta, based in Atlanta, has faced challenges in fully restoring its operations following a flawed software update conducted by cybersecurity company CrowdStrike, which affected various businesses worldwide. This update resulted in issues with Microsoft’s Windows operating systems, affecting corporate users and, in some instances, causing the infamous “Blue Screen of Death.”
The incident had widespread repercussions across nearly all major industries, including healthcare, logistics, retail, and finance. However, the airline sector, particularly Delta, experienced significant disruptions. On Friday alone, over 46,000 flights were delayed and 5,171 were canceled, as reported by FlightAware, with Delta suffering the most extensive impact.
Delta has disclosed that it canceled approximately 3,500 flights over Friday and Saturday. Additionally, the airline canceled more than 2,500 flights on Sunday and Monday and delayed another 3,441. As of Tuesday, 738 flights have also been reported as canceled or delayed.
In a statement on Sunday, Delta CEO Ed Bastian expressed regret to all affected by the disruptions, stating that canceling flights is a last resort and not a decision taken lightly. He reaffirmed the airline’s commitment to connecting travelers around the world and acknowledged the challenges posed by travel interruptions.
Bastian noted that Delta relies heavily on Microsoft Windows applications, including essential tools for crew tracking, which were unable to accommodate changes due to the system’s failure. To assist affected customers, Delta has introduced a travel waiver allowing for free flight changes, along with providing meal vouchers, hotel accommodations, and transportation options.