UPDATE: A Delta Air Lines flight made an emergency return to Atlanta due to engine issues, impacting 191 passengers onboard. The incident occurred shortly after takeoff on December 28, 2023, forcing the aircraft to circle the city before safely landing back at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport.
Flight DL2627, a Boeing 757-200, departed at 4:42 PM for a scheduled 45-minute journey to Jacksonville International Airport (JAX). However, shortly after takeoff, the pilots reported an engine problem and opted to return for safety reasons, circling between 7,000 and 10,000 feet before landing at approximately 5:15 PM, just 33 minutes later.
Passengers were quickly rebooked onto an alternative flight as Delta’s maintenance crew inspected the aircraft. The replacement flight, also designated DL2627, departed at 9:44 PM and arrived in Jacksonville at 10:27 PM, leading to significant delays for travelers. The return flight from JAX did not leave until 11:32 PM, arriving back in Atlanta at 12:14 AM the following morning.
This Boeing 757-200, identified as N823DX, is notable for being the last of its kind ever built. After being inspected overnight, it was declared fit for flight and returned to service the next day, operating a route to New Orleans.
The incident raises concerns about aircraft safety, particularly with older models like the 21-year-old Boeing 757-200. Delta Air Lines has not yet provided an official statement regarding the engine failure but has assured that passenger safety remains its top priority.
Travelers and aviation enthusiasts are closely monitoring the situation, especially given that Delta is the second-largest operator at Jacksonville, handling 22% of flights at the airport.
As investigations continue, passengers are advised to stay informed about any further updates or changes to their travel plans.
