Passengers aboard a Delta Airlines flight bound for Minneapolis were forced to evacuate using emergency slides on Friday morning after an aborted takeoff at Atlanta’s Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport.
The incident, attributed to an engine issue, occurred in snowy conditions and led to four minor injuries, with one person hospitalized, according to airline and airport officials.
Flight 2668, a Boeing 757-300, was carrying approximately 200 passengers when the crew halted takeoff around 9:10 a.m. following an engine malfunction.
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The passengers were quickly instructed to deplane via emergency slides onto the snow-covered tarmac.
Video footage shared on social media shows travelers, including families with children, hurrying away from the aircraft while carrying luggage in several inches of snow.
Emergency responders were seen assisting passengers as they evacuated the plane.
Four passengers reported minor injuries, and one individual was transported to a local hospital for further evaluation.
The remaining injured passengers were treated at the scene, airport officials confirmed. Details about the nature of the engine issue that prompted the evacuation were not immediately disclosed.
In a statement, Delta Airlines apologized for the incident and emphasized its commitment to safety.
“Delta’s flight crew followed established procedures to suspend the takeoff of flight 2668 after an indication of an engine issue,” the airline said.
“Nothing is more important than the safety of our people and customers, and we apologize to our customers for their experience.”
The airline also stated that it was working to accommodate affected passengers on alternative flights to their destination.
While the exact cause of the engine problem remains under investigation, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has been notified of the incident.
Delta (Boeing 757-300) Airlines Flight Evacuated After Aborted Takeoff, Four Injured…
Passengers aboard a Delta Airlines flight bound for Minneapolis were forced to evacuate using emergency slides on Friday morning after an aborted takeoff at Atlanta’s Hartsfield-Jackson… pic.twitter.com/Eb3c0dsZyC
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The FAA is expected to conduct a thorough review to determine the cause of the engine malfunction and whether all safety protocols were properly followed.
Passengers described the situation as chaotic but praised the crew for their swift actions to ensure safety.
One traveler recounted hearing unusual noises before the takeoff was aborted, leading to the emergency evacuation. “It was definitely a nerve-wracking experience, but I’m glad everyone got out safely,” the passenger said.
This incident adds to a series of aviation-related safety concerns during winter conditions, underscoring the challenges airlines face in maintaining equipment and ensuring passenger safety during adverse weather.
As investigations continue, Delta Airlines and federal authorities will work to uncover the details behind the engine malfunction while ensuring the safety of future flights.
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