Delta Air Lines Sues CrowdStrike Over Massive Technology Outage
/ 2 min read
Delta Air Lines has filed a lawsuit against cybersecurity firm CrowdStrike, alleging that the company’s negligence led to a significant technology outage in July, resulting in thousands of canceled flights and substantial financial losses. The incident, which Delta claims was triggered by a faulty update affecting millions of Microsoft computers, severely disrupted the airline’s operations and impacted other sectors, including banks and hospitals. The lawsuit, filed in Georgia, seeks compensation and punitive damages, while CrowdStrike refutes the allegations, attributing the prolonged recovery to Delta’s outdated IT systems.
- Delta reported over $500 million in lost revenue and additional expenses due to the outage.
- Approximately 7,000 flights were canceled over a five-day period.
- CrowdStrike’s liability to Delta is claimed to be less than $10 million, according to the cybersecurity firm.
Delta attributes the outage to CrowdStrike’s failure to adequately test a software update before its global deployment, which they argue led to a “global catastrophe.” The U.S. Department of Transportation is investigating the incident, focusing on Delta’s recovery time compared to other airlines and customer service issues during the disruption. CrowdStrike, however, contends that Delta’s claims are based on misinformation and a misunderstanding of modern cybersecurity practices, suggesting that the airline’s outdated IT infrastructure contributed to the slow recovery.
Despite the lawsuit, challenges remain, including the need for Delta to modernize its IT systems to prevent future vulnerabilities. Additionally, the investigation by the Department of Transportation could reveal further insights into the airline’s operational resilience and customer service protocols.
Bottom line: The legal battle between Delta and CrowdStrike underscores the complexities of cybersecurity in the aviation industry and highlights the critical need for robust IT infrastructure. As the investigation unfolds, the outcome could have significant implications for both companies and the broader sector. For more details, you can read the full article on AP News.
