Delta Airlines reported a 26% year-over-year decline in profits in the third quarter of 2024, with net income falling to $971 million from $1.31 billion. The decline was driven by a significant computer failure in July, caused by a flaw in a CrowdStrike software update, which also affected Microsoft Windows, leading to disruptions in airport systems and the cancellation of numerous flights.

While the air company's revenues increased slightly, expenses, including those for staff, landing fees and its regional affiliate Delta Connection, grew at a much faster pace. The airline's shares fell nearly 6% in premarket trading following the announcements, negatively impacting other airlines.

However, with its headquarters in Atlanta, Delta is forecasting a rebound in profit growth for the current quarter, benefiting from a reduction in flights by low-cost carriers and compensation for disruptions caused by the July outage, valued at $500 million. CEO Ed Bastian remains optimistic about the near-term future, citing strong bookings for the Thanksgiving and Christmas periods. He does, however, anticipate a possible decline in consumer spending on pre-holiday travel, affected by uncertainty surrounding the upcoming November US election.