The Battle Between CrowdStrike and Delta Airlines: A Closer Look
In the aftermath of July’s mass outage that resulted in the cancellation of thousands of Delta flights, tensions have escalated between CrowdStrike and Delta Airlines. The situation has reached a boiling point, with the potential for a lawsuit looming over the technology company.
According to reports, CrowdStrike’s lawyer, Michael Carlinsky, recently sent a letter to Delta Airlines’ lawyer, David Boies, addressing the airline’s threats of legal action. Carlinsky stated that Delta’s claims against CrowdStrike have created a misleading narrative, suggesting that the technology company is to blame for Delta’s IT decisions and handling of the outage.
The letter also revealed that CrowdStrike’s CEO, George Kurtz, reached out to Delta’s CEO, Ed Bastian, offering on-site assistance during the crisis. However, there was allegedly no response from Delta’s end.
Facing the Consequences
In response to Delta’s stance on seeking damages, Bastian emphasized the airline’s obligation to protect its shareholders, customers, and employees. He highlighted the financial impact of the outage, not just in terms of cost but also the damage to Delta’s brand and reputation.
Delta reportedly suffered significant financial losses, estimated to be between $350 million and $500 million, due to the outages and subsequent flight cancellations. The incident also caused disruptions on Microsoft-run devices and internal systems at Delta, impacting crucial operational tools.
While Delta has not disclosed the amount it seeks in compensation from CrowdStrike, the airline has expressed its intention to pursue legal action against the tech company. Despite the lawsuit not yet being officially filed, the situation remains tense between the two parties.
The Fallout and Future Outlook
As the saga unfolds, Delta Airlines’ stock has taken a hit, dropping over 15.5% year-over-year. The ongoing conflict raises questions about the accountability and response mechanisms of both companies in times of crisis.
Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story as CrowdStrike and Delta Airlines navigate the aftermath of the IT outage that shook the airline industry.