The Department of Transportation is currently examining Delta Air Lines to ensure that the airline is adequately addressing consumer concerns following a series of flight cancellations linked to a recent global technology outage.
Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttigieg emphasized that all airline passengers deserve fair treatment and pledged that those rights would be upheld. He noted that his department has received numerous complaints regarding Delta’s handling of the situation.
Delta, headquartered in Atlanta, has faced challenges in reinstating its operations after a flawed software update from cybersecurity firm CrowdStrike had widespread repercussions. This update negatively affected Microsoft’s Windows operating systems, leaving users across various sectors without access and some experiencing the notorious “Blue Screen of Death.”
The disruption impacted nearly all major industries, including healthcare, delivery services, retail, and finance. Airlines, particularly Delta, were severely affected, with over 46,000 flight delays and more than 5,000 cancellations reported on Friday alone, as per FlightAware data.
Delta has reported canceling approximately 3,500 flights on Friday and Saturday, with more than 2,500 additional cancellations on Sunday and Monday, along with over 3,400 delays. On Tuesday, the situation remained dire, with 738 flights affected by cancellations or delays.
Delta CEO Ed Bastian expressed regret for the disruptions, stating that canceling flights is always a last resort and is not taken lightly. He apologized to all travelers impacted by the outages and reiterated the airline’s commitment to connecting people globally. To assist affected travelers, Delta has implemented a travel waiver allowing free flight changes and is providing meal vouchers, hotel accommodations, and transportation.