The Department of Transportation is currently investigating Delta Air Lines to ensure consumer protections are in place as the airline continues to cancel flights following a recent global tech outage. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg stated on social media that all airline passengers have the right to fair treatment, and he is committed to upholding that right. He noted that his department has received “hundreds of complaints” regarding Delta’s handling of the situation.
Delta, based in Atlanta, has struggled to restore operations days after a problematic software update by cybersecurity firm CrowdStrike affected companies worldwide. This update caused a defect in Microsoft’s Windows operating systems, disrupting access for corporate users and in some cases leading to the infamous “Blue Screen of Death.”
The incident impacted nearly every major industry, including healthcare, delivery services, retail, and finance, but airlines and airports faced the brunt of the disruption. Reports indicated that on Friday alone, over 46,000 flights were delayed, and an additional 5,171 were canceled, with Delta bearing the worst of the impact.
Delta canceled approximately 3,500 flights over Friday and Saturday, followed by more than 2,500 cancellations on Sunday and Monday, along with 3,441 delays. By Tuesday, 738 flights had also been canceled or delayed.
Delta CEO Ed Bastian expressed regret over the cancellations, stating that they are always a last resort and that he apologizes to all affected passengers. He emphasized Delta’s mission to connect the world and acknowledged the challenges travelers face when their plans are disrupted.
Bastian explained that a substantial number of Delta’s applications rely on Microsoft Windows, which contributed to the issues with a crew tracking tool that failed to adjust after the system shutdown. To assist impacted customers, Delta has implemented a travel waiver allowing free flight changes and is providing meal vouchers, hotel accommodations, and transportation.