Delta Flight Evacuated on Tarmac at Atlanta’s Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport
Delta Air Lines passengers had to evacuate onto the tarmac at Atlanta’s Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport on Friday morning due to an engine issue amid a winter storm, according to the airline.
Details of the Incident
Flight 2668 had 201 passengers onboard, who were evacuated from the plane via emergency slides and taken back to the terminal via ground transportation, officials said.
Causes and Consequences
The airline did not elaborate on the engine issue, but a winter storm has been plaguing the Atlanta metropolitan area with snow and ice Friday. The National Weather Service warned residents to stay home if they did not need to be out on the roads.
Investigation and Response
Flight 2668 was meant to depart for Minneapolis–Saint Paul International Airport at around 7 a.m., according to FlightAware.com. Takeoff was suspended at around 9 a.m., per the Federal Aviation Administration, who told NBC News they will investigate the engine issue.
Delta said their flight crew, which included two pilots and five flight attendants, “followed established procedures to suspend the takeoff” of the Boeing 757-300 plane.
“Nothing is more important than the safety of our people and customers, and we apologize to our customers for their experience,” Delta said in a statement. “We are working to support our customers and get them to their destinations as safely and quickly as possible.”
Injuries and Damage
Four passengers reported minor injuries, according to a statement from Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport. One was transported for medical attention and three were treated on the scene.
Airport Operations and Wider Impact
“Operations at ATL are delayed due to the incident and the ongoing severe weather,” the airport said. “The aircraft and the runway are expected to be cleared shortly.”
Widespread Impact of Winter Storm
On Friday, 98 million people across the South are under winter weather alerts as a storm brings snow and ice to the region. The Atlanta metropolitan area is forecast to receive around 1 to 2 inches of snow and 0.10 to 0.25 an inch of ice that can lead to power outages and severely disrupt travel.
Conclusion
The incident serves as a reminder of the importance of prioritizing safety in extreme weather conditions. Delta’s prompt response and the airport’s efforts to clear the runway are reassuring, and it is hoped that the passengers affected will be able to reach their destinations as soon as possible.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What happened on Flight 2668?
A: The flight had to be evacuated due to an engine issue, and passengers were taken to the terminal via ground transportation.
Q: How many passengers were on board?
A: There were 201 passengers on board.
Q: What is the current status of the flight?
A: The flight has been suspended, and an investigation is underway.
Q: Are there any reported injuries?
A: Yes, four passengers reported minor injuries, and one was transported for medical attention.
Q: How will the airline respond to the incident?
A: Delta will work to support its customers and get them to their destinations as safely and quickly as possible.
Q: Are there any travel advisories in place?
A: Yes, 98 million people across the South are under winter weather alerts due to the storm, and residents are advised to stay home if they don’t need to be out on the roads.
