Delta Air Lines faced significant disruptions on Monday, canceling hundreds of flights as it worked to recover from a global software outage that affected operations over the weekend. The Atlanta-based airline canceled 1,300 flights and delayed an additional 1,600 on Sunday alone, following over 3,500 cancellations and delays between Friday and Saturday.
By 8 a.m. ET on Monday, Delta reported 626 flights canceled and 144 delayed, representing about 20% of its scheduled operations for the day. In contrast, American Airlines experienced minor disruptions, with only 38 cancellations and 155 delays, amounting to approximately 5% of its planned flights.
The problems for Delta stem from a flawed software update implemented by cybersecurity firm CrowdStrike, which occurred late Thursday. The update adversely impacted Microsoft’s Windows operating systems, causing widespread access issues for corporate users and leading to system failures, including instances of the “Blue Screen of Death.”
Various sectors, including healthcare, retail, and finance, were affected, but the airline industry suffered the most. On Friday, more than 46,000 flights were delayed, with 5,171 cancellations recorded, impacting airlines and airports extensively, with Delta being the most affected.
Delta CEO Ed Bastian expressed regret over the cancellations, stating that such decisions are not made lightly. He acknowledged the inconvenience caused to travelers and assured that Delta is committed to connecting the world. The airline has offered travel waivers for passengers wishing to change their flights, along with meal vouchers, hotel accommodations, and transportation assistance.
Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg noted on social media that his department had received numerous complaints regarding Delta’s handling of the situation. He urged the airline to provide refunds, offer free rebooking options, and ensure timely reimbursements for affected customers’ meals and accommodations. Buttigieg emphasized that no traveler should have to endure delays or remain stranded at an airport without support.