Investigation Launched into Delta Air Lines Following Global Tech Disruptions and Flight Cancellations
- The U.S. airline regulators have initiated an investigation into Delta Air Lines after a software update led to significant global operational disruptions.
- Delta has struggled to return to normal operations for over four days, resulting in numerous flight cancellations.
- The investigation may lead to regulatory implications for Delta Air Lines in the wake of this incident.
Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg announced an investigation into Delta Air Lines following a significant operational outage that has disrupted travel for over half a million passengers. The airline, along with its Delta Connection partners, canceled more than 500 flights on Tuesday alone, contributing to a staggering total of over 6,500 cancellations since Friday. This situation has raised questions about Delta's recovery efforts, especially as other airlines have returned to normal operations. Delta attributed the disruptions to a faulty Windows update from cybersecurity vendor CrowdStrike, which rendered its IT systems inoperable. In response, Delta's Chief of Operations, John Laughter, stated that the airline is actively repositioning planes, pilots, and flight attendants to restore normal operations by the end of the week. Historically, Delta has been recognized as one of the best-run airlines in the U.S., known for its profitability and on-time performance. The airline reported progress in addressing a backlog in its crew-scheduling system, reducing issues by 75% in the past 36 hours, and is also working to return lost luggage to passengers. Refunds for affected travelers will be processed in the original payment method, typically credit cards, rather than as vouchers. Lawmakers are beginning to scrutinize Delta's handling of the situation. Senator Maria Cantwell, chair of the Senate committee overseeing airlines, expressed concern in a letter to Delta's CEO regarding compliance with passenger rights established by recent legislation. This investigation follows a previous case where Southwest Airlines faced a $35 million fine related to operational failures.