Kamal Ghorui
Panic gripped passengers onboard a Delta Air Lines flight after an engine malfunction triggered visible flames shortly after take-off from Sao Paulo. The Airbus A330, bound for Atlanta, was forced to return to the airport within minutes of departure late Sunday.The aircraft, carrying nearly 300 people including crew, experienced trouble with its left engine just as it lifted off from Sao Paulo/Guarulhos International Airport.
‘Fire on your wings’: ATC alerts pilot
Dramatic videos circulating on social media showed sparks and flames shooting from beneath the wing as the aircraft climbed into the night sky.In audio exchanges, air traffic control can be heard warning the pilots: “Delta, you have fire on your wings,” to which the crew responded they would return immediately.The pilot declared an emergency and initiated a turnaround as terrified passengers inside the cabin screamed, fearing for their lives.
Emergency landing within minutes
Flight tracking data indicated the plane was airborne for just over nine minutes before safely landing back at the airport. Emergency services, including firefighting teams, were deployed on the runway as a precaution.Burning debris was also reported to have fallen from the aircraft, briefly igniting grass near the runway.
No injuries, probe underway
Despite the alarming scenes, no injuries were reported. The airline later confirmed the incident was caused by a “mechanical issue” and said passengers were safely evacuated and transported back to the terminal.“The safety of our customers and crew is our highest priority,” the airline said in a statement, apologising for the disruption.Authorities have launched an investigation to determine the exact cause of the engine failure.
