Microsoft has attributed Delta Air Lines’ prolonged recovery from the recent CrowdStrike update malfunction to the airline’s outdated IT infrastructure. The assertion came amid escalating tension between the companies following Delta’s threat to initiate legal action against both Microsoft and CrowdStrike.
In a letter sent to Delta, Microsoft expressed that it is investigating why the airline took longer than its peers, such as American Airlines and United Airlines, to restore business operations. Microsoft’s attorney, Mark Cheffo, noted, “Our preliminary review suggests that Delta, unlike its competitors, apparently has not modernized its IT infrastructure, either for the benefit of its customers or for its pilots and flight attendants.” The full letter can be accessed here.
The incident stems from a faulty update from CrowdStrike on July 19 that affected millions of Windows PCs. Delta has accused Microsoft of gross negligence in handling the issue, but Microsoft refuted these claims and emphasized that Delta declined repeated offers of assistance. According to a detailed report from CNBC, Microsoft’s repeated offers for help between July 19 and July 23 went unanswered by Delta.
Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella even personally reached out to Delta CEO Ed Bastian without receiving a response. Speculations point to Delta’s use of systems serviced by other technology providers, such as IBM, rather than Microsoft, as a possible reason for refusing assistance. Further details are available from Ars Technica.
Both Microsoft and CrowdStrike have signaled readiness to defend themselves robustly if Delta decides to pursue litigation.