Delta bans thousands of passengers as airline cancellations hits 5,500 – and US government opens investigation

DELTA Airlines has banned thousands of passengers from travel as it attempts to recover from the latest Microsoft outage.

The airline has canceled more than 5,500 flights since Crowdstrike's software collapse early Friday morning, which has caused chaos across the board for travelers.

While many carriers have slowly but surely recovered over the weekend, Delta is still struggling to get back on its feet.

The airline announced that it is temporarily banning unaccompanied minor travel, effective immediately.

"Due to an earlier vendor technology issue, unaccompanied minor travel is currently paused through Tuesday, July 23," the website said.

"Those already booked will not be able to travel. Please do not book new travel for unaccompanied minors at this time."

While others, like American Airlines and United, have more or less recovered from the software bug, Delta remains affected.

The carrier announced more than 400 flight cancellations Tuesday morning.

Families who spoke to The New York Times said that they were not notified of Delta's travel ban until they arrived at the check-in counter.

The suspension, which was originally slated to be lifted Monday, has been extended through Tuesday.

Scott Darling, who drove his 17-year-old son Asher to the San Jose airport, told The New York Times that he purchased a refundable first-class ticket to walk Asher through to the boarding gate.

Darling had intended to find an adult on the plane who would accompany Asher for the duration of the flight.

Upon arrival, however, the two were turned away by airline staff who alerted them that the accompanying adult "has to be family."

Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg announced on Tuesday that the Department of Transportation has launched an investigation into Delta's operations.

"US DOT has opened an investigation into Delta Air Lines to ensure the airline is following the law and taking care of its passengers during continued widespread disruptions," Buttigieg said.

"All airline passengers have the right to be treated fairly, and I will make sure that right is upheld."

Passengers have also taken to social media to report that the airline hasn't honored commitments to provide hotel and meal vouchers.

Many said that the airline has refused cash refunds or alternative rebooking options on other airlines, instead offering only credit for future flights.

In a statement, Delta acknowledged that travelers are entitled to refunds, reimbursement for eligible expenses, and travel waivers for inconveniences they may face from July 19-23.

"Across the operation, Delta teams are working tirelessly to care for customers impacted by delays and cancellations as the airline works to put flight crews and aircraft back in position following the disruption," the website said.

"We have made clear to Delta that they must take care of their passengers and honor their customer service commitments," said Buttigieg.

"This is not just the right thing to do, it’s the law, and our department will leverage the full extent of our investigative and enforcement power to ensure the rights of Delta’s passengers are upheld."

Passengers can report air-related issues or complaints through a form here.