A Delta Airlines flight bound for Atlanta made an emergency landing at Los Angeles Airport after an engine caught fire shortly after takeoff. All passengers remained safe.
Delta Air Lines: Delta Air Lines flight DL446, en route from Los Angeles to Atlanta, had to make an emergency landing due to an engine fire just minutes after takeoff. Flames were seen coming from the left engine of the 24-year-old Boeing 767-400 aircraft. The pilots immediately prioritized safety and turned the aircraft back to Los Angeles Airport, where it landed safely. All passengers and crew members were completely safe in the incident. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has launched an investigation. This is the second engine failure incident for Delta Air Lines this year.
Engine Caught Fire Minutes After Takeoff
Delta Air Lines flight DL446 departed from Los Angeles International Airport for Atlanta on Friday. Shortly after takeoff, flames were seen coming from the aircraft's left engine. The aircraft was a Boeing 767-400, approximately 24 years old, with registration number N836MH.
According to reports, the fire incident occurred as the aircraft was heading towards the Pacific Ocean. Video footage taken from the ground clearly showed flames erupting from the aircraft's left engine. Several eyewitnesses and passengers reported that the scene was terrifying.
Pilots Immediately Decided to Return
The pilots adopted emergency procedures without delay upon detecting signs of engine malfunction and fire. They contacted Air Traffic Control (ATC) to inform them of the situation and decided to return the aircraft immediately.
The flight made a return flight over the areas of Downey and Paramount. During this time, the aircraft's altitude and speed were controlled. The pilots followed all necessary safety protocols and checklists, safely landing the aircraft back.
Fire Crew Remained Alert During Landing
When the flight returned to Los Angeles Airport, the emergency response team was already prepared. As soon as the aircraft came to a stop, the fire crew immediately took action and brought the engine fire under control. According to a Delta Air Lines spokesperson, no passengers or crew members were injured.
Passengers reported that the pilots handled the situation well, constantly informing and reassuring the passengers. All people on board were safely evacuated, and alternative flight arrangements were provided.
FAA Initiated Investigation
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has launched an investigation into the incident. The aircraft is powered by a General Electric CF6 engine. A team of experts is now working to determine the cause of the engine fire.
The FAA's investigation is focused on whether it was a technical fault, a maintenance oversight, or an unforeseen mechanical failure. Delta has also initiated its own technical investigation and safety procedure review.
