The Department of Transportation is currently investigating Delta Air Lines to ensure consumer rights are being upheld following a series of flight cancellations linked to a recent global technology outage.
Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg emphasized on social media that all airline passengers deserve fair treatment, noting that his department has received “hundreds of complaints” concerning Delta’s response to the tech disruptions.
Delta, headquartered in Atlanta, continues to face challenges in fully restoring operations after a flawed software update by the cybersecurity firm CrowdStrike impacted numerous global businesses. The update caused issues with Microsoft’s Windows operating systems, affecting users’ access to essential systems and leading to instances of the infamous “Blue Screen of Death.”
The disruption affected several industries, including healthcare, delivery services, retail, and finance, with airlines and airports experiencing some of the most severe impacts. FlightAware reported that on Friday, over 46,000 flights were delayed and another 5,171 were canceled, with Delta being the most significantly affected airline.
Delta announced it canceled about 3,500 flights on Friday and Saturday, followed by over 2,500 cancellations on Sunday and Monday, along with 3,441 delays. By Tuesday, the airline reported an additional 738 cancellations or delays.
Delta CEO Ed Bastian expressed regret over the situation, stating that flight cancellations are a last resort and a difficult decision. He extended his apologies to all passengers affected, recognizing the frustration caused by travel disruptions. Bastian explained that Delta relies on numerous applications utilizing Microsoft Windows, including tools for crew tracking, which were unable to adapt to the system shutdown. To assist impacted customers, Delta has implemented a travel waiver allowing for free flight changes and is providing meal vouchers, hotel accommodations, and transportation.