Delta Air Lines has canceled hundreds of flights as it continues to deal with the aftermath of a global software outage that caused significant disruptions over the weekend.
On Sunday alone, Delta canceled about 1,300 flights and delayed 1,600, according to FlightAware data. The airline had previously grounded more than 3,500 flights between Friday and Saturday. By early Monday morning, Delta had canceled 626 flights and delayed 144, accounting for roughly 20% of its scheduled operations. In comparison, American Airlines canceled only 38 flights and delayed 155, representing about 5% of its planned flights.
The disruptions began after a flawed software update from cybersecurity firm CrowdStrike on Thursday night affected Microsoft’s Windows operating systems, leading to access issues for corporate users and even the infamous “Blue Screen of Death” for some. This incident significantly impacted multiple sectors, including healthcare, delivery services, retail, and finance, but airlines experienced the brunt of the effects. On Friday, more than 46,000 flights were delayed, with an additional 5,171 cancellations reported.
Delta’s CEO, Ed Bastian, expressed regret over the cancellations, emphasizing that the decision to cancel flights is never taken lightly. He apologized to passengers affected by the disruption, acknowledging how challenging it is when travel plans are upended.
Bastian noted that a considerable number of Delta’s applications rely on Microsoft Windows, including a crucial crew tracking tool that was hindered by the software issues. To assist affected customers, Delta has implemented a travel waiver allowing free flight changes, as well as providing meal vouchers, hotel accommodations, and transportation.
Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg announced via social media that his department has received numerous complaints about Delta’s response to the situation. He urged the airline to ensure refunds, facilitate free rebooking, and provide timely reimbursements for food and lodging to those impacted.
Buttigieg emphasized that no passenger should have to spend the night stranded at an airport or endure long wait times for customer service assistance.