Microsoft Corp. (NASDAQ:MSFT) has pushed back against Delta Air Lines Inc. (NYSE:DAL), claiming the airline rejected multiple offers of assistance during last month’s major system outage. This assertion aligns with similar statements from CrowdStrike Holdings Inc. (NASDAQ:CRWD), intensifying the ongoing conflict between Delta and its technology partners.
According to a letter from Microsoft’s attorneys to Delta, Microsoft employees reached out daily from July 19 to July 23 to offer technical support, but each offer was declined by Delta. Microsoft Chief Executive Officer Satya Nadella also sent a personal email to Delta CEO Ed Bastian without receiving a response. The letter, signed by Mark Cheffo of Dechert LLP, highlights that despite the outage not being caused by Microsoft’s software, the company offered assistance at no cost.
The dispute follows Delta’s hiring of attorney David Boies and its intention to seek compensation for the outage, which is expected to cost the airline $500 million this quarter. Delta experienced delays in recovery compared to its competitors after a software update from CrowdStrike, which affected Microsoft systems and led to widespread flight cancellations.
Bastian has criticized both CrowdStrike and Microsoft, referring to Microsoft as “probably the most fragile platform” among major technology providers. The outage impacted Delta’s internal systems for managing flight and crew changes, disrupting the alignment of aircraft and personnel.
The US Department of Transportation has launched an investigation into Delta’s handling of the outage, with potential fines depending on the outcome. This follows a $140 million fine imposed on Southwest Airlines Co. (NYSE:LUV) in 2023 for a similar operational breakdown.
Microsoft’s response follows CrowdStrike’s recent letter, which also detailed Delta’s refusal of assistance and Bastian’s lack of response to outreach from CrowdStrike CEO George Kurtz.
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