Terrifying footage captured the moment an engine failure on a Delta flight shortly after takeoff caused a fire at the airport.
The incident occurred at Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport when a Delta Air Lines Boeing 737 experienced engine failure, resulting in a grass fire near the runway. The pilots quickly decided to return to Savannah instead of continuing to Atlanta.
A passenger onboard described the moment when one of the engines malfunctioned, causing flames to shoot out of the CFM-56 turbofan engine. Holly Kesler expressed gratitude to the pilot and crew for their expert handling of the situation, ensuring a safe landing back at the airport.
Another passenger, Melissa Johnson, recounted hearing a loud boom and seeing sparks flying during takeoff. The experience was likened to a car engine backfiring but much louder, causing fear among passengers.
Savannah City Mayor Van Johnson confirmed the incident, stating that a grass fire erupted at the airport due to the aircraft issue but thankfully, there were no injuries reported.
A Delta spokesperson acknowledged a mechanical problem with the left engine of the plane after takeoff but reassured that the aircraft landed safely. They mentioned that the Boeing 737-900 was met by fire trucks, and passengers disembarked normally at the gate. The airline is working to accommodate affected customers on alternate flights and apologized for any travel disruptions.
