The Department of Transportation is launching an investigation into Delta Air Lines to ensure the company is adequately addressing consumer needs following a series of flight cancellations linked to a global tech outage last week.
Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg emphasized the importance of fair treatment for airline passengers in a recent social media statement. He noted that the department has received numerous complaints regarding Delta’s handling of the situation.
Delta, based in Atlanta, has faced challenges in fully resuming operations after a flawed software update by cybersecurity firm CrowdStrike caused widespread disruptions. This update affected Microsoft’s Windows operating systems, leading to system failures and what has been described as the “Blue Screen of Death” for corporate users.
The incident impacted nearly every major sector, including healthcare, delivery services, retail, and finance. Airlines and airports were especially hard hit, with FlightAware reporting over 46,000 flight delays and more than 5,171 cancellations on Friday alone. Delta was particularly affected, canceling approximately 3,500 flights over the weekend.
As of Sunday and Monday, Delta had canceled over 2,500 flights and delayed another 3,441. On Tuesday, the airline reported an additional 738 flights canceled or delayed.
Delta’s CEO, Ed Bastian, expressed regret over the disruptions, stating that canceling a flight is always a last resort. He acknowledged the difficulties travelers face due to changes in their plans and assured that Delta is committed to connecting the world.
Bastian explained that the airline relies heavily on various Microsoft Windows applications, including those necessary for crew tracking, which were unable to function due to the system outage. To support affected customers, Delta is offering a travel waiver allowing free flight changes, meal vouchers, hotel accommodations, and transportation.