A Delta Air Lines flight bound for Minneapolis was forced to abort takeoff at Atlanta’s Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport after experiencing engine failure, leaving four passengers injured. The incident occurred amid a winter storm that disrupted operations at the world’s busiest airport.
Delta spokesperson Morgan Durrant confirmed the engine issue but noted that officials have not yet determined whether the failure was linked to the severe weather conditions. At the time of the incident, a blizzard had caused widespread flight cancellations and delays across the airport.
The Boeing 757-300 aircraft, carrying 201 passengers, two pilots, and five flight attendants, was evacuated using inflatable slides. Passengers and crew were transported back to the terminal via bus. One passenger was hospitalized, while three others received treatment for minor injuries at the airport.
Durrant emphasized that the crew “followed established procedures to abort the takeoff” and prioritized safety. “Nothing is more important than the safety of our employees and customers,” she said. “We apologize for what our customers experienced and are working hard to support them and get them to their destinations as safely and quickly as possible.”
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has announced it will investigate the incident.
The winter storm forced the temporary closure of all five runways at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport. Delta canceled approximately 500 flights at the airport, citing the snowfall as “earlier and more intense than forecast.” The airline stated that the heavy snow reduced de-icing capabilities and significantly slowed operations.
Delta has waived additional fees for customers needing to rebook their flights and warned that further cancellations or rescheduling may occur as the airport works to recover from the weather-related disruptions.
The incident highlights the challenges airlines face during severe winter weather, even as they prioritize passenger safety and operational efficiency.
