Delta Air Lines faced significant disruptions on Monday, canceling hundreds of flights as it struggled to recover from a global software outage that affected its operations over the weekend. The airline, based in Atlanta, canceled 1,300 flights on Sunday and delayed another 1,600, according to data from FlightAware. In total, Delta had previously scrapped more than 3,500 flights on Friday and Saturday.
By Monday morning, Delta had canceled 626 flights and delayed 144, which accounted for about 20% of its scheduled operations. In contrast, American Airlines experienced only 38 cancellations and 155 delays, representing approximately 5% of its planned flights.
The disruption originated from a flawed software update implemented by cybersecurity firm CrowdStrike late Thursday night. The update impacted Microsoft’s Windows operating systems, causing corporate users, including Delta, to experience access issues and, in some cases, the notorious “Blue Screen of Death.”
The fallout reached nearly every sector, affecting healthcare providers, delivery services, retailers, and financial institutions. Airlines faced the most significant challenges, with over 46,000 flights delayed and more than 5,171 cancellations reported on Friday alone, with Delta being hit the hardest.
Delta CEO Ed Bastian addressed the cancellations in a statement on Sunday, emphasizing that canceling flights is always a last resort. He apologized to affected travelers and acknowledged the difficulties that disruptions cause. Bastian noted that Delta relies heavily on Microsoft Windows applications, including those for crew tracking, which hindered the airline’s ability to respond effectively.
In response to the situation, Delta has introduced a travel waiver allowing customers to change their flights at no extra cost, and it is providing meal vouchers, hotel accommodations, and transportation options.
Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg stated on social media that his department had received numerous complaints regarding Delta’s management of the disruptions. He insisted that Delta must offer refunds, facilitate free rebooking, and ensure timely reimbursements for expenses like meals and hotel stays for those impacted.
Buttigieg further added that no traveler should have to spend the night in an airport or wait excessively for assistance from customer service.