The Department of Transportation is currently looking into Delta Air Lines to ensure proper consumer protection as the airline continues to face cancellations following last week’s global tech outage.
Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttigieg emphasized the rights of airline passengers, stating, “All airline passengers have the right to be treated fairly, and I will make sure that right is upheld.” He noted that his department has received numerous complaints regarding Delta’s response to the tech issues.
Delta, based in Atlanta, has been struggling to restore normal operations after a problematic software update by cybersecurity company CrowdStrike affected businesses worldwide. This update caused issues with Microsoft’s Windows operating systems, leaving users unable to access their systems and encountering the notorious “Blue Screen of Death.”
The incident disrupted almost every major industry, with airlines and airports experiencing significant challenges. On Friday alone, over 46,000 flights were delayed and 5,171 were canceled, as reported by FlightAware, with Delta being among the hardest hit.
Delta Airlines canceled approximately 3,500 flights on Friday and Saturday. FlightAware figures reveal that the airline canceled over 2,500 flights on Sunday and Monday, with an additional 3,441 delayed. On Tuesday, 738 flights were already canceled or delayed.
Delta’s CEO Ed Bastian expressed regret for the disruptions, stating, “Canceling a flight is always a last resort, and something we don’t take lightly. I want to apologize to every one of you who have been impacted by these events. Delta is in the business of connecting the world, and we understand how difficult it can be when your travels are disrupted.”
Bastian further explained that many of Delta’s applications rely on Microsoft Windows, including a crucial tool for crew tracking, which was unable to function due to the system’s shutdown. In response to the situation, Delta has implemented a travel waiver allowing customers to change their flights at no cost, in addition to providing meal vouchers, hotel accommodations, and transportation.