Microsoft Blames Delta for Struggles in Recovering from Global Cyber Outage, Reports Reuters

By Rajesh Kumar Singh

CHICAGO (Reuters) – Microsoft has pointed fingers at Delta Air Lines for a protracted global cyber outage that resulted in over 6,000 flight cancellations.

A software update last month from cybersecurity firm CrowdStrike prompted issues for multiple Microsoft customers, including various airlines. However, while disruptions at major U.S. carriers subsided the day after the incident, Delta continued to face ongoing problems.

Microsoft’s initial investigation indicated that Delta had not modernized its IT infrastructure to the same extent as its competitors.

In response, Delta asserted that it has made significant investments in its IT infrastructure, allocating billions since 2016, on top of substantial yearly operating costs.

“Delta has a long history of investing in safe, reliable, and high-quality service for our customers and employees,” a spokesperson for the airline stated.

The chaotic flight disruptions left countless travelers stranded, resulting in estimated losses of $500 million for the Atlanta-based airline. Additionally, Delta is under investigation by the U.S. Transportation Department due to the incident.

To pursue damages from both CrowdStrike and Microsoft, Delta has engaged renowned litigator David Boies, recognized for handling major business-related cases.

Last week, Delta’s CEO, Ed Bastian, expressed to a news outlet that, despite the airline’s heavy reliance on the two tech companies, they had not provided the “exceptional service” that was expected. He further criticized Microsoft, describing its platform as the "most fragile."

In response, Mark Cheffo, a lawyer representing Microsoft, characterized Delta’s remarks as "incomplete, false, misleading, and damaging" to the tech giant’s reputation. Cheffo clarified that Microsoft’s software was not responsible for the issues stemming from CrowdStrike’s incident and stated that Microsoft had offered help to Delta at no charge. He noted that CEO Satya Nadella had reached out to Bastian via email but never received a response.

Microsoft claims it made multiple attempts to assist Delta following the outage, all of which were declined. The company accused Delta of utilizing services from other technology providers for its crew-tracking and scheduling systems, which it suggested may have contributed to the airline’s refusal of help.

Cheffo further indicated that Microsoft would "vigorously" defend itself if Delta chooses to file a lawsuit.

CrowdStrike, likewise, has denied liability for the flight disruptions, stating that its CEO reached out personally to Bastian to extend onsite support, but did not receive a reply.