Two individuals lost their lives after a tire on a Delta Air Lines aircraft exploded while it was being changed at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport. The incident, which took place early Tuesday morning around 5 a.m. in the airport’s maintenance area, resulted in the deaths of a Delta employee and a contractor. A third person sustained serious injuries.
The plane involved had arrived in Atlanta from Las Vegas on Sunday night, as reported by WSB-TV. The Delta TechOps team, which is responsible for the maintenance of all Delta aircraft, is based at the airline’s global headquarters in Atlanta.
Delta Air Lines issued a statement: “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. 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.”
Delta has committed to collaborating with local authorities as they investigate the cause of the explosion.
Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens also issued a statement, extending his condolences to the families and loved ones of the victims. “I offer my deepest condolences to the family and loved ones of the deceased Delta employees,” he said. “My thoughts are also with those who were injured, and I hope for their swift and full recovery. AFRD, APD, and HJAIA teams are on the scene, working diligently to address the situation.”
