Delta Air Lines Struggles to Recover from Cyber Outage

Delta Air Lines is working to restore normal operations after a global cyber outage last week led to the cancellation of over 5,000 flights since Friday. The disruption, caused by a software update from cybersecurity firm CrowdStrike that affected Microsoft customers, has significantly impacted Delta’s flight schedule.

As of Monday morning, Delta had cancelled more than 600 flights, about 16% of its schedule, according to FlightAware.

This follows the cancellation of 1,250 flights on Sunday, adding to the 3,500 already scrapped in the first two days following the outage. Delta’s operations in five Canadian airports have also been affected, with several departures and arrivals cancelled at major airports in Toronto and Montreal. Flights from Detroit to Montreal and those from Minneapolis to Vancouver were among the scrapped routes.

The cyber outage has left thousands of Delta travelers stranded across the United States. Many passengers have had to rent cars to cover long distances, while others face days-long waits for new flights or the possibility of cancelling their trips altogether. On Sunday, Delta cancelled one-third of its schedule, with 44% of its flights, approximately 1,700, delayed.

In comparison, United Airlines cancelled about 9% of its Sunday flights, totaling 266, the second-most among carriers. The significant difference highlights the extent of Delta’s operational challenges.

Delta CEO Ed Bastian explained that the outage affected their Microsoft Windows systems, disrupting a critical crew tracking application. “In particular, one of our crew tracking-related tools was affected and unable to effectively process the unprecedented number of changes triggered by the system shutdown,” Bastian stated in an email to customers. He also assured employees that Delta would continue to “tactically adjust” schedules to maintain safety.

Delta’s website provides updates on the recovery process from the tech issue, directing customers to a page for rebooking and refund options related to delayed and cancelled flights. The airline is making continuous efforts to address the situation and minimize further disruptions.

Delta Air Lines faces a significant challenge in recovering from the recent cyber outage that has disrupted its operations and stranded thousands of passengers. With ongoing efforts to restore normalcy, Delta is committed to ensuring safety and providing support to affected travelers.