The Department of Transportation is probing Delta Air Lines to ensure consumer rights are upheld as the airline faces ongoing flight cancellations following a global tech outage last week. Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttigieg emphasized the importance of fair treatment for airline passengers in a social media statement, noting that his department had received numerous complaints regarding Delta’s response to the outages.
Based in Atlanta, Delta is struggling to restore full operations after a failed software update by cybersecurity firm CrowdStrike disrupted businesses worldwide. This update caused issues with Microsoft’s Windows operating systems, leaving many corporate users struggling with system access and causing widespread operational challenges.
The incident impacted numerous industries, with airlines and airports experiencing significant disruptions. On Friday alone, over 46,000 flights were delayed, and 5,171 were canceled, according to FlightAware, with Delta being the most affected airline.
Delta reported canceling approximately 3,500 flights on Friday and Saturday, followed by more than 2,500 cancellations on Sunday and Monday, along with 3,441 delays. As of Tuesday, 738 flights had also been canceled or delayed.
Delta CEO Ed Bastian expressed regret over the disruptions, stating that canceling a flight is always a last resort. He reassured customers that the airline recognizes the challenges posed by travel disruptions and is committed to connecting the world. To assist passengers, Delta has implemented a travel waiver that allows for free flight changes and is providing meal vouchers, hotel accommodations, and transportation.