A Delta Airlines flight bound for Minneapolis-St. Paul from Atlanta’s Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport was forced to execute an emergency evacuation on Friday, January 10th, 2025. The incident, occurring amidst rare snowfall and icy conditions, left passengers shaken but thankfully resulted in only minor injuries. A video shared on Reddit by the husband of a passenger captured the dramatic scene as evacuation slides were deployed, and passengers scrambled to safety.
Engine Issue Forces Emergency Evacuation
Delta Airlines confirmed in a statement that flight 2668, operated by a Boeing 757-300 aircraft, experienced an “indication of an engine issue” during its takeoff roll. The crew, prioritizing the safety of the 201 passengers and seven crew members on board, immediately suspended the takeoff and initiated an emergency evacuation.
While Delta has not yet disclosed the specific nature or severity of the engine problem, the decision to evacuate suggests a significant safety concern. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has launched an investigation into the incident to determine the root cause.
Passengers Describe Harrowing Experience
Passengers described a terrifying ordeal as the plane accelerated for takeoff, then abruptly slowed down. They were instructed to brace for impact and then ordered to evacuate via the emergency slides. Video footage from Atlanta News First showed passengers sliding down and running away from the aircraft, some visibly panicked.
One passenger recounted the experience to her husband, who shared the information on Reddit. She described the sudden deceleration and the subsequent evacuation order, highlighting the fear and uncertainty experienced by those on board. The rapid deployment of the evacuation slides and the passengers’ swift exit from the aircraft underscore the effectiveness of the emergency procedures.
Minor Injuries Reported, Airport Operations Disrupted
Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport reported that four passengers sustained minor injuries during the evacuation. One individual was transported to a local hospital for further treatment, while the remaining three received on-site medical attention.
The incident, coupled with the severe weather conditions, caused significant disruptions to airport operations. The FAA implemented a ground stop for Delta flights into Atlanta, which was later extended until 2 p.m., impacting numerous travelers. The airport confirmed that the aircraft and runway were cleared shortly after the incident, allowing for the resumption of normal operations.
Delta’s Response and Passenger Support
Delta Airlines emphasized its commitment to passenger safety in its statement, apologizing for the distressing experience. The airline assured customers that it was working diligently to provide support and rebook them on alternative flights to their destinations as quickly and safely as possible.
Upon returning to the terminal, the evacuated passengers were provided with refreshments and cots in a conference room. While it remains unclear whether immediate rebooking was possible, Delta’s efforts to provide comfort and assistance demonstrate a focus on mitigating the impact of the incident on its passengers.
Snowfall Contributes to Challenging Conditions
The rare snowfall in Atlanta created challenging conditions at the airport, likely contributing to the complexities of the situation. The snow and ice accumulation may have played a role in the initial engine issue or impacted the evacuation process. The incident highlights the importance of airlines and airports being prepared for adverse weather events and having robust emergency protocols in place.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Delta Flight Evacuation
Q: What caused the Delta flight to evacuate?
A: Delta Airlines reported an “indication of an engine issue” as the cause of the evacuation. The FAA is currently investigating the incident to determine the specific cause.
Q: Were there any injuries reported?
A: Yes, four passengers reported minor injuries. One passenger was taken to the hospital, while three others were treated at the scene.
Q: How many passengers were on board the flight?
A: There were 201 passengers and seven crew members on board.
Q: What type of aircraft was involved?
A: The aircraft was a Boeing 757-300.
Q: What is Delta doing for the affected passengers?
A: Delta provided refreshments and cots for the passengers and is working to rebook them on new flights.
Q: Did the weather play a role in the incident?
A: The incident occurred during a rare snowfall in Atlanta, which may have created challenging conditions at the airport. However, the exact role of the weather in the incident is still under investigation.
