Delta Air Lines faced significant challenges on Monday after canceling hundreds of flights, continuing its recovery efforts from a severe global software outage that caused widespread delays and cancellations over the weekend.
On Sunday alone, Delta canceled around 1,300 flights and delayed 1,600 more, with previous reports indicating that over 3,500 Delta and Delta Connection flights were canceled between Friday and Saturday. By Monday morning, Delta had canceled 626 flights and delayed 144, which accounted for approximately 20% of its planned flights for the day. In contrast, American Airlines canceled only 38 flights and delayed 155, representing about 5% of its planned operations.
The problems originated from a failed software update conducted by cybersecurity firm CrowdStrike late Thursday night. This defect affected Microsoft’s Windows operating systems, disrupting access for corporate users, with some experiencing the infamous “Blue Screen of Death.”
The fallout from this incident impacted nearly every major industry, including healthcare, delivery services, retail, and finance, but was particularly severe for airlines. On Friday alone, over 46,000 flights were delayed and 5,171 were canceled across the industry, with Delta bearing the brunt of the disruptions.
Delta CEO Ed Bastian expressed regret in a statement, emphasizing that canceling flights is always a last resort. He apologized to those affected, reinforcing Delta’s commitment to connecting the world and acknowledging the difficulties travel disruptions can cause.
Bastian explained that a significant portion of Delta’s applications relies on Microsoft Windows, including crucial tools for crew tracking, which failed to process necessary changes due to the system shutdown. In response, Delta has implemented a travel waiver allowing customers to change their flights free of charge and is providing meal vouchers, hotel accommodations, and transportation.
Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg highlighted concerns on social media regarding Delta’s management of the disruptions, mentioning that his department had received numerous complaints. He stated that Delta needs to ensure refunds, provide free rebooking options, and offer timely reimbursements for food and lodging expenses to customers affected by the chaos.
He added that no passenger should have to stay overnight at an airport or experience long wait times to speak with a customer service representative.