The Department of Transportation is examining Delta Air Lines to ensure consumer rights are prioritized, following the airline’s ongoing flight cancellations linked to a recent global technology failure. Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttigieg emphasized the importance of fair treatment for all airline passengers, stating that his department has received numerous complaints regarding Delta’s response to the situation.
Delta, headquartered in Atlanta, has struggled to recover fully after a problematic software update by cybersecurity firm CrowdStrike disrupted operations globally. This update caused issues with Microsoft’s Windows operating systems, leaving many corporate users grappling with system access problems.
The aviation sector, among others, was significantly impacted by this outage. On Friday alone, over 46,000 flights were delayed and 5,171 canceled, as reported by FlightAware, with Delta experiencing the most severe disruptions. The airline canceled approximately 3,500 flights on Friday and Saturday, followed by more than 2,500 cancellations from Sunday to Monday, and additional delays affecting 3,441 flights. As of Tuesday, 738 flights have already faced cancellations or delays.
Delta CEO Ed Bastian expressed regret over the disruptions, stating that canceling flights is a last resort. He acknowledged the frustration this situation has caused for travelers and assured that Delta is committed to connecting people while addressing the challenges arising from these operational issues.
Bastian also mentioned that Delta relies heavily on Microsoft Windows applications, including tools important for crew tracking, which were unable to operate due to the software issue. In response, Delta has implemented a travel waiver allowing customers to change their flights without penalty and has offered meal vouchers, hotel accommodations, and transportation to affected passengers.