Delta Air Lines has faced significant disruptions, canceling hundreds of flights on Monday as it continues to recover from a major software outage that impacted global travel. The Atlanta-based airline reported 1,300 flight cancellations and 1,600 delays on Sunday, following an even larger number of over 3,500 cancellations across Delta and Delta Connection flights from Friday to Saturday.
By approximately 8 a.m. ET on Monday, the airline had canceled 626 flights and delayed 144, representing around 20% of its scheduled operations for the day. In contrast, American Airlines experienced a much smaller impact, with only 38 cancellations and 155 delays, about 5% of its operations.
The disruption stemmed from a flawed software update implemented by cybersecurity firm CrowdStrike late Thursday, which affected Microsoft’s Windows operating systems. This led to many corporate users, including Delta, losing access to essential systems and experiencing severe technical issues, including the notorious “Blue Screen of Death.”
The outage had a widespread impact, affecting nearly all major industries such as healthcare, delivery services, retail, and finance, but airlines and airports were particularly hard hit. For instance, on Friday alone, FlightsAware recorded over 46,000 delays and 5,171 cancellations, with Delta being the most affected.
Delta’s CEO, Ed Bastian, expressed regret over the situation, stating, “Canceling a flight is always a last resort, and something we don’t take lightly.” He emphasized the company’s commitment to connecting travelers and acknowledged the challenges faced during the disruptions. Delta has implemented a travel waiver for customers, allowing free flight changes, as well as providing meal vouchers, hotel accommodations, and transportation assistance.
Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg addressed the situation on social media, noting that his department received numerous complaints regarding Delta’s response to the disruptions. He urged the airline to ensure that passengers receive appropriate refunds, free rebooking options, and timely compensations for food and lodging expenses incurred during the travel chaos. Buttigieg stated, “No one should be stranded at an airport overnight or stuck on hold for hours waiting to talk to a customer service agent.”