delta air lines turned one of its flights back to Atlanta on Wednesday after a problem involving an engine and a tire. Flight 828 departed Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport around 2: 30 p. m. ET bound for Springfield, Missouri, then returned to Hartsfield-Jackson shortly after takeoff. The airline said the aircraft came back because of an issue “with one of the aircraft’s engines and tires, ” with safety driving the decision.
What happened in the air and on the ground
The flight involved a Boeing 717 aircraft. After returning to Atlanta, the plane was met on the tarmac by emergency vehicles, as seen by a camera at the airport. The aircraft was then towed to the gate, where passengers and crew exited.
The airline confirmed there were 110 passengers on board, along with two pilots and three flight attendants. No further details were provided about the nature of the issue beyond the engine and tire reference.
Immediate reactions from the airline
A spokesperson for the Atlanta-based carrier said passengers were being provided snacks and beverages while waiting for a replacement flight to Springfield. The spokesperson also issued an apology to customers for the disruption.
“Nothing is more important than the safety of our customers and people, and we apologize to our customers for their experience, ” the spokesperson said.
Quick context
The incident unfolded as Flight 828 was starting a scheduled trip from Atlanta to Springfield, Missouri, and it ended with a return to the departure airport. The aircraft was surrounded by emergency vehicles on the tarmac before being moved to a gate for deplaning.
What’s next
Passengers were awaiting a new flight to Springfield as of Wednesday afternoon ET, with refreshments provided during the delay. The airline has not provided additional operational details beyond confirming the engine-and-tire issue, and delta air lines has not stated when the aircraft involved will return to service.
