Microsoft and Delta clash over cyber outage

A prolonged recovery from a global cyber outage has been attributed to Delta Air Lines by Microsoft, following over 6,000 cancelled flights. The issue began with a software update by CrowdStrike, which caused system problems for various Microsoft customers. While other airlines recovered quickly, Delta continued to face disruptions.

Delta has defended its IT investments, citing billions spent since 2016 on both capital and operating costs. Despite this, flight disruptions affected hundreds of thousands of travellers, costing the airline an estimated $500 million. An investigation by the US Transportation Department is now underway, and Delta has hired litigator David Boies to seek damages from CrowdStrike and Microsoft.

Delta’s CEO Ed Bastian criticised Microsoft and CrowdStrike for failing to provide exceptional service, calling Microsoft’s platform “fragile.” Microsoft responded, labelling Delta’s comments as false and damaging. The tech giant insisted it had offered assistance to Delta, which was declined.

CrowdStrike also denied responsibility for the disruptions, with its CEO personally offering onsite help to Delta without receiving a reply. Microsoft has vowed to defend itself vigorously if a lawsuit is filed, and tensions between the airline and tech companies remain high.