The U.S. Department of Transportation is conducting an investigation into Delta Air Lines to ensure it is properly handling consumer concerns following a series of flight cancellations caused by a global technology outage last week.
Mars, the company known for M&M candies, is set to acquire Kellanova, the maker of Pop-Tarts, in what is anticipated to be one of the year’s largest business deals.
Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttigieg stated on social media that “all airline passengers have the right to be treated fairly,” reaffirming his commitment to uphold this right. He noted that his department had received “hundreds of complaints” concerning Delta’s response to the recent tech issues.
Delta, based in Atlanta, has faced challenges in resuming normal operations after a faulty software update from CrowdStrike, a cybersecurity firm, disrupted systems worldwide. This update notably affected Microsoft’s Windows operating systems, leaving many corporate users unable to access essential services and, in numerous cases, encountering the notorious “Blue Screen of Death.”
The incident impacted nearly every major industry, including healthcare, logistics, retail, and finance. Airlines and airports experienced significant disruptions, with more than 46,000 flights delayed and 5,171 canceled just on Friday, as per FlightAware data. Delta was particularly hard hit.
In total, Delta canceled around 3,500 flights over Friday and Saturday. The airline continued to struggle, canceling over 2,500 flights on Sunday and Monday, and delaying another 3,441. By Tuesday, Delta had already recorded 738 additional cancellations or delays.
Delta’s CEO, Ed Bastian, expressed regret over the disruptions, stating, “Canceling a flight is always a last resort, and something we don’t take lightly. I want to apologize to every one of you who have been impacted by these events.” He emphasized that Delta is focused on connecting the world and understands the challenges that travel disruptions can create.
Bastian indicated that Delta relies on a “significant number of applications” that utilize Microsoft Windows, such as a tool for tracking crew members, which was rendered ineffective by the system failure. To accommodate affected travelers, Delta has implemented a travel waiver allowing customers to change flights without fees and has also provided meal vouchers, hotel accommodations, and transportation options.