Delta Air Lines experienced significant operational disruptions on Monday, canceling hundreds of flights as it grapples with the aftermath of a global software outage that had previously grounded and delayed flights for several days.
The Atlanta-based airline reported 1,300 cancellations and 1,600 delays on Sunday alone, based on data from FlightAware. Between Friday and Saturday, more than 3,500 Delta and Delta Connection flights were canceled. By 8 a.m. ET on Monday, Delta announced the cancellation of 626 flights and 144 delays, representing about 20% of its scheduled operations. In contrast, American Airlines faced minimal disruptions with just 38 cancellations and 155 delays.
The troubles at Delta originated from a flawed software update implemented by cybersecurity firm CrowdStrike late Thursday. This issue affected Microsoft’s Windows operating systems, leading to restricted access for corporate users and instances of the “Blue Screen of Death.” The incident had widespread repercussions, impacting numerous sectors including healthcare, delivery services, retail, and finance. Airlines were particularly affected, with over 46,000 flights delayed and 5,171 canceled on Friday, with Delta suffering the most.
Delta CEO Ed Bastian expressed regret over the situation, stating, “Canceling a flight is always a last resort, and something we don’t take lightly.” He extended an apology to all passengers affected by the disruptions, emphasizing Delta’s commitment to connecting travelers worldwide. Bastian noted that many of the airline’s applications rely on Microsoft Windows, including critical tools for tracking crews that were hindered by the software issues. In response, Delta has implemented a travel waiver allowing customers to change their flights without charge and is providing meal vouchers, hotel accommodations, and transportation.
U.S. Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttigieg remarked on social media that his department received numerous complaints regarding Delta’s response to the disruptions. He stressed that Delta should ensure refunds, free rebooking options, and prompt reimbursements for food and lodging for stranded customers, asserting that no traveler should have to spend the night at an airport or endure long wait times for customer service assistance.