The Department of Transportation is examining Delta Air Lines to ensure it is properly addressing consumer needs following a series of flight cancellations linked to a recent global technology outage.
Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg emphasized in a social media statement that all airline passengers deserve fair treatment, pledging to protect that right. He had previously noted that his department received numerous complaints regarding Delta’s response to the tech issues.
Delta, based in Atlanta, has faced challenges in resuming normal operations after a flawed software update by CrowdStrike impacted various industries worldwide. This update malfunctioned Microsoft’s Windows operating systems, leaving many corporate users locked out and facing system crashes.
The incident affected nearly every major sector, with airlines and airports particularly hard hit. On Friday, for instance, over 46,000 flights were delayed and more than 5,000 were canceled, according to FlightAware, with Delta suffering the most significant disruptions.
Delta reported canceling around 3,500 flights over the weekend, with an additional 2,500 cancellations on Sunday and Monday, along with over 3,400 delays. On Tuesday, FlightAware indicated that 738 flights had either been canceled or delayed.
CEO Ed Bastian expressed regret in a statement on Sunday, stating that canceling a flight is always a last resort. He acknowledged the difficulties travelers face due to disruptions and promised a commitment to connecting the world.
Bastian revealed that Delta relies on numerous Microsoft Windows applications, including a crucial crew tracking tool that was unable to adapt to the shutdown. In response to the inconveniences, Delta is offering a travel waiver to allow customers to change flights at no charge, along with meal vouchers, hotel accommodations, and transportation assistance.