On January 10, 2025, an unexpected engine issue forced Delta Air Lines Flight 2668, a Boeing 757-300 bound for Minneapolis-St. Paul, to abort takeoff at Atlanta’s Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport. The dramatic evacuation unfolded against the backdrop of a rare winter storm that brought the city to a standstill.
The Incident: A Takeoff Gone Awry
Passengers on Flight 2668 were gearing up for departure when the plane suddenly decelerated during its takeoff roll at around 9:10 a.m. The flight crew, detecting an engine problem, made the decision to abort takeoff and instructed passengers to brace for an emergency evacuation.
More than 200 passengers and crew members were swiftly evacuated using emergency slides onto the snow-blanketed tarmac. Amid the urgency, flight attendants urged everyone to “duck” as they exited the aircraft.
Evacuation and Injuries
Though the evacuation was handled efficiently, the emergency landing and snowy conditions led to minor injuries for four passengers. One individual was transported to the hospital, while the others were treated on-site. Heart-pounding video clips and images from the scene show passengers, including children, scrambling away from the aircraft in the midst of the snowstorm.
The Weather Worsens the Chaos
This incident coincided with Atlanta’s rare and intense winter storm, which caused widespread disruptions at the world’s busiest airport. With snow accumulating rapidly and deicing operations overwhelmed, all five runways were temporarily shut down. Delta Airlines canceled nearly 500 flights by noon, leaving passengers stranded as airlines scrambled to manage delays and cancellations.
A Passenger’s Perspective
For those on board, the ordeal was described as terrifying. One passenger recalled the abrupt slowdown of the plane, followed by the urgent evacuation commands. Delta Airlines provided stranded travelers with hotel accommodations and rebooking options, while apologizing and reaffirming their commitment to safety.
What Happens Next? FAA Investigation Underway
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has launched an investigation into the engine issue and the emergency response. While mechanical problems are uncommon, incidents like this are a stark reminder of why rigorous safety protocols exist in aviation.
FAQs: What You Need to Know About Aviation Emergencies
1. What caused the engine issue on Flight 2668?
The FAA is investigating the root cause of the engine problem. Details are expected upon the conclusion of their analysis.
2. Did the weather play a role in this incident?
While the engine issue was mechanical, the severe winter weather added complexity to the emergency response. Snow and icy conditions impacted airport operations but are not currently linked to the engine failure.
3. What should passengers do in an emergency evacuation?
- Stay calm and listen to flight attendants.
- Follow instructions about the nearest exits.
- Leave belongings behind to avoid delays during the evacuation.
4. How can passengers stay informed during weather disruptions?
- Use airline apps and flight trackers for live updates.
- Check airport social media accounts for operational news.
- Plan ahead by signing up for airline text or email alerts.
5. Is air travel safe during severe weather?
Airlines follow strict protocols for flying in winter conditions, including deicing and monitoring aircraft systems. However, delays and cancellations are common during storms for passenger safety.
A Lesson in Preparedness
This incident is a powerful reminder of how critical safety protocols and emergency training are in the aviation industry. While the rare snowfall in Atlanta created additional challenges, the swift evacuation and minimal injuries reflect the professionalism of the Delta crew.
The FAA’s investigation will shed light on the cause of the engine issue, but for now, the focus remains on ensuring passengers’ safety amid nature’s unpredictable forces.
Sources CNN
