Passengers aboard a Delta Air Lines flight experienced a heart-pounding scare on Monday at Orlando International Airport after flames erupted from one of the aircraft’s engines just before takeoff. The emergency forced a full-scale evacuation as terrified travelers slid down inflatable chutes to safety.
Delta Flight 1213, which was set to depart for Atlanta, was still on the tarmac when witnesses inside the terminal captured dramatic video of the unfolding emergency. Footage showed passengers frantically escaping the aircraft moments before flames were seen blasting from the tailpipe of one of the plane’s engines.
The aircraft, an Airbus A330, was carrying 200 passengers along with 10 flight attendants and two pilots when the alarming incident occurred. According to a statement from Delta, the crew swiftly initiated emergency protocols, prompting the evacuation of everyone on board.
Thankfully, no injuries have been reported. Once safely off the plane, travelers were escorted back to the terminal where Delta provided food, drinks, and updates. The airline arranged for another aircraft to continue the journey to Atlanta.
“We sincerely apologize to our customers for the unsettling experience and thank them for their cooperation,” a Delta spokesperson said. “Safety is our top priority, and we’re working to get everyone to their final destination as quickly as possible.”
Orlando International Airport confirmed the fire was quickly contained and extinguished. While the exact cause of the engine fire remains unclear, Delta stated that its maintenance teams are thoroughly inspecting the plane. Meanwhile, the Federal Aviation Administration has launched an investigation into the incident.
