A Delta airplane tire exploded during maintenance at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, resulting in the tragic deaths of two individuals – a Delta employee and a contractor. A third person suffered serious injuries in the incident, which occurred in the airport’s maintenance area around 5 am on Tuesday.
The plane, which had arrived from Las Vegas on Sunday night, was being serviced by Delta TechOps, the airline’s maintenance division. Atlanta serves as the global headquarters for Delta TechOps, handling over 200 routes worldwide.
Delta Air Lines expressed their condolences, stating, “The Delta family is heartbroken at the loss of two team members and the injury of another following an incident this morning at the Atlanta Technical Operations Maintenance facility.” They added, “We have extended our full support to family members and colleagues during this incredibly difficult time. The Delta family is grateful for the quick action of first responders and medical teams on site.”
Flights at the airport were not impacted by the incident. Delta has vowed to cooperate with local authorities in investigating the cause of the explosion. Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens offered his condolences, saying, “I offer my deepest condolences to the family and loved ones of the deceased Delta employees. My thoughts are also with those who were injured, and I hope for their swift and full recovery.”
Emergency responders, including AFRD, APD, and HJAIA teams, are working to address the situation. This incident comes just months after a Delta plane lost its nose wheel during takeoff from the same airport. An investigation is underway to determine the cause of the tire explosion. Delta’s cooperation with authorities aims to ensure a thorough examination of the incident and prevent similar tragedies in the future.
