The Department of Transportation is currently investigating Delta Air Lines to ensure consumer protection as the airline faces ongoing flight cancellations following a significant global tech outage last week.
In a statement on social media, Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttigieg emphasized that all airline passengers deserve fair treatment and pledged to uphold this right. He noted that the department has received “hundreds of complaints” regarding Delta’s response to the incident.
Atlanta-based Delta has struggled to restore normal operations days after a flawed software update from cybersecurity firm CrowdStrike affected numerous businesses worldwide. The update caused problems with Microsoft’s Windows operating systems, leaving many corporate users without access and some experiencing the notorious “Blue Screen of Death.”
The incident impacted a wide range of industries, but airlines and airports were particularly hard-hit. According to FlightAware, on Friday alone, over 46,000 flights were delayed, and an additional 5,171 flights were canceled, with Delta being the most affected airline.
Delta reported the cancellation of approximately 3,500 flights during Friday and Saturday. By Sunday and Monday, the airline had canceled over 2,500 flights and delayed another 3,441. On Tuesday, an additional 738 flights were either canceled or delayed.
Delta CEO Ed Bastian issued an apology to affected passengers, stating that canceling flights is a last resort and a decision not taken lightly. He highlighted the challenges posed by the disruptions, noting that Delta relies heavily on Microsoft Windows systems, including tools for tracking crew members which were unable to adapt to the software issues. To assist affected customers, Delta has provided a travel waiver allowing free flight changes, as well as offering meal vouchers, hotel accommodations, and transportation.