Quantcast

Delta Air Lines CEO criticizes cybersecurity firms over costly IT outage

Delta Air Lines CEO criticizes cybersecurity firms over costly IT outage
Policy
Webp 6titncb125j5v79amc9x56vg30x2
AVWeb | AVWeb

Delta Air Lines CEO Ed Bastian criticized cybersecurity firm CrowdStrike and software provider Microsoft, noting that the IT outage cost the airline $500 million.

The massive July 19 computer outage at Delta disrupted the airline’s crew tracking system for nearly a week, preventing the company from locating pilots and flight attendants to operate flights. As a result, Delta had to cancel some 30% of its flights.

Speaking to CNBC on Wednesday, Bastian said the carrier is prepared to pursue legal action. “We have no choice. We’re not looking to wipe them out, but we’re looking to make certain that we get compensated however they decide to for what they cost us. Half a billion dollars in five days.”

Get the Newsletter
Sign-up to receive weekly round up of news from Sky Industry News
By submitting, you agree to our Privacy Policy and Terms of Service. By providing your phone number you are opting in and consenting to receive recurring SMS/MMS messages, including automated texts, to that number from our short code. Msg & data rates may apply. Reply HELP for help, STOP to end. SMS opt-in will not be sold, rented, or shared.

Bastian said Delta’s recovery was significantly hampered due to its heavy reliance on CrowdStrike and Microsoft for cybersecurity. The company had to manually reset 40,000 servers to restore operations.

CNBC reported that Delta has engaged prominent law firm Boies Schiller Flexner to seek damages from CrowdStrike and Microsoft.

Organizations Included in this History
More News

London Heathrow, recognized as Europe's busiest airport, will soon experience an increase in its flight offerings by Oman Air.

Sep 2, 2025

Minneapolis–St. Paul International Airport will commence safety and airfield improvement projects on Runway 12R-30L in two distinct phases throughout 2025.

Aug 22, 2025

Delta Air Lines is adjusting its service between Atlanta and Anchorage, extending flights beyond the summer travel season to a year-round offering.

May 15, 2025

In December 2022, Southwest Airlines faced a major crisis as operational challenges led to the cancellation of 16,900 flights, affecting nearly two million passengers during a peak travel period.

Apr 19, 2025

Harrison Ford, an acclaimed actor known for roles such as Han Solo in "Star Wars" and Indiana Jones, is also a noted aviation enthusiast.

Apr 19, 2025

Iberia Airlines has confirmed a notable shift in its flight schedule connecting Madrid and Dallas/Fort Worth, introducing its first overnight service from Europe to the US.

Apr 19, 2025