Delta faces investigation following CrowdStrike outage

WASHINGTON (NEXSTAR) – A CrowdStrike software update brought down millions of computers, grounded thousands of flights, affected hospital communications and 911 centers last week. Lawmakers warn the update highlights the vulnerability with so many industries relying on one software.

“This was just a drop in the bucket of what could happen,” said Rep. Tony Gonzales (R-Texas). “Less than 1 or 2% of Microsoft’s overall machines were impacted. Yet, it was the worst IT outage in history.”

The airline industry suffered on Friday and over the weekend. Multiple airlines had to cancel flights. Delta said it grounded thousands of flights between last Friday and this Wednesday. The airline’s CEO announced on Thursday operations were back to normal.

Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg announced the Department of Transportation was investigating Delta’s recovery from the software glitch and its customer service complaints.

“You are entitled to cash if your flight is canceled and you don’t take a rebooking,” Buttigieg said.

Delta said it is fully cooperating with the DOT’s investigation.

Sen. Josh Hawley (R-Mo.)  said he’s gotten indications airlines aren’t doing that.

“The law is, unless the passenger refuses it, they’re entitled to that refund,” Hawley said. “I want to make sure they are complying with the law and passengers are getting what they deserve.

Delta’s full statement is below:

“Delta is in receipt of the Department’s notice of investigation and is fully cooperating. We remain entirely focused on restoring our operation after cybersecurity vendor CrowdStrike’s faulty Windows update rendered IT systems across the globe inoperable. Across our operation, Delta teams are working tirelessly to care for and make it right for customers impacted by delays and cancellations as we work to restore the reliable, on-time service they have come to expect from Delta.”

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