The Department of Transportation is currently investigating Delta Air Lines to ensure consumer protections are being upheld, following a series of flight cancellations attributed to a recent global technology outage. Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttigieg stated that all airline passengers have the right to fair treatment, and he emphasized his commitment to ensuring this right is maintained. He acknowledged receiving “hundreds of complaints” regarding Delta’s response to the tech issues.
Delta, based in Atlanta, has faced challenges in resuming normal operations after a faulty software update from cybersecurity firm CrowdStrike affected businesses worldwide. This update caused issues with Microsoft’s Windows operating systems, disrupting access for corporate users and leading to widespread system failures, including the notorious “Blue Screen of Death.”
The incident has had a far-reaching impact, affecting various sectors including healthcare, retail, and finance. Airlines and airports were particularly hard hit, with more than 46,000 flight delays and over 5,171 cancellations reported on Friday alone, according to FlightAware. Delta was notably impacted, canceling approximately 3,500 flights over the weekend and reporting more than 2,500 cancellations on Sunday and Monday, along with significant delays.
Delta CEO Ed Bastian issued an apology to those affected by the cancellations, emphasizing that flight cancellations are a last resort and a decision taken seriously. He explained that a large number of Delta’s applications rely on Microsoft Windows, which contributed to the disruption. To assist affected customers, Delta has provided a travel waiver allowing free flight changes, as well as meal vouchers, hotel accommodations, and transportation options.