Delta Air Lines has canceled numerous flights on Monday as the airline continues to face challenges three days after a global software outage caused widespread disruptions in air travel.
The Atlanta-based airline canceled approximately 1,300 flights on Sunday and delayed another 1,600, as per FlightAware data. Prior to that, Delta had already canceled over 3,500 flights, including those from its regional partner Delta Connection, between Friday and Saturday.
By around 8 a.m. ET on Monday, Delta had canceled 626 flights and delayed 144, which accounted for about 20% of its scheduled operations. In contrast, American Airlines managed to cancel only 38 flights and delay 155, representing roughly 5% of its flight schedule.
The root cause of Delta’s operational challenges was linked to a problematic software update implemented by cybersecurity firm CrowdStrike late Thursday. This update malfunctioned and impacted Microsoft’s Windows operating systems, leaving corporate clients, including Delta, without access to essential systems and experiencing failures such as the notorious “Blue Screen of Death.”
The software issues affected a wide range of industries, with airlines and airports particularly hard-hit. On Friday, more than 46,000 flights were delayed and 5,171 were canceled across the industry, with Delta facing the most significant impact.
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. I want to apologize to every one of you who have been impacted by these events.” He emphasized Delta’s commitment to passenger connectivity despite the travel disruptions.
Bastian explained that numerous applications critical to Delta’s operations rely on Microsoft Windows, including a tool for crew tracking that could not function following the system shutdown. To assist affected travelers, Delta has offered a travel waiver allowing free flight changes, as well as meal vouchers, hotel accommodations, and transportation.
Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttigieg also commented on the situation, revealing that the department had received “hundreds of complaints” regarding Delta’s response to the disruptions. He stressed that passengers should receive refunds, free rebooking, and timely compensation for food and lodging expenses.
Buttigieg further stated, “No one should be stranded at an airport overnight or stuck on hold for hours waiting to talk to a customer service agent.”