Key facts
- The DOT has closed its investigation into Delta Air Lines' 2024 travel disruptions.
- Enforcement was deemed unwarranted due to Delta's prompt passenger assistance, including refunds and baggage support.
- The investigation was initiated by the Biden administration following a global CrowdStrike outage that impacted Delta.
- The probe was conducted under a February 2025 executive order from President Donald Trump directing regulatory review.
- Delta faces ongoing legal battles with CrowdStrike and a customer class-action lawsuit.
The Department of Transportation (DOT) has closed its investigation into the extensive travel disruptions experienced by Delta Air Lines passengers in 2024, determining that enforcement was not warranted. The probe, initiated by the Biden administration, examined Delta's response to widespread meltdowns reportedly caused by a global CrowdStrike outage that disrupted the travel plans of 1.3 million customers.
A DOT spokesperson stated that the review found Delta's passengers received prompt refunds, adequate baggage assistance, and appropriate support, particularly for passengers with disabilities. Delta cited millions of dollars in refunds, hotels, and baggage support as part of its customer care efforts.
The investigation was conducted under a February 2025 executive order from President Donald Trump, which directed agencies to re-evaluate regulations imposing significant costs without clear public benefits. Delta had previously reported approximately 7,000 flight cancellations over five days, resulting in at least $500 million in damages.
Delta faces an ongoing court battle with CrowdStrike over the incident and a federal class-action lawsuit from customers alleging inadequate compensation for delays and cancellations.