The Department of Transportation has launched an investigation into Delta Air Lines to ensure consumer rights are upheld as the airline continues to face flight cancellations following a recent global technical disruption.
Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttigieg emphasized the importance of fair treatment for all airline passengers in a statement on social media. He noted that the department had received numerous complaints regarding Delta’s handling of the situation.
Delta, headquartered in Atlanta, is struggling to return to normal operations after a poorly executed software update by cybersecurity firm CrowdStrike caused widespread issues. A flaw in the update affected Microsoft’s Windows operating systems, disrupting access for many corporate users and leading to a significant outage.
The incident impacted multiple sectors, including healthcare, delivery services, retail, and finance, with airlines and airports being particularly affected. On a single day, over 46,000 flights were delayed and more than 5,000 were canceled, with Delta facing the most significant impact.
The airline reported around 3,500 flight cancellations over Friday and Saturday, followed by more than 2,500 additional cancellations and approximately 3,441 delays on Sunday and Monday. On Tuesday alone, Delta saw 738 flights canceled or delayed.
Delta CEO Ed Bastian expressed regret over the cancellations, stating that they are always a last resort. He acknowledged the frustration caused to affected travelers, reaffirming the airline’s commitment to connecting people around the world.
Bastian explained that Delta relies on numerous applications that utilize Microsoft Windows, including a crucial crew tracking system that was hindered by the outage. In response to the disruptions, Delta has implemented a travel waiver allowing customers to modify their flight plans at no cost, along with providing meal vouchers, hotel accommodations, and transportation options.