Boeing 767 Engine Fire Causes Emergency Landing at LAX: Passengers Safe
Los Angeles, CA – A Delta Airlines flight experienced a dramatic scare earlier today when an engine burst into flames during takeoff from Los Angeles International Airport (LAX). The incident, involving a Boeing 767-400, prompted an immediate emergency landing, thankfully with all passengers and crew reported to be safe.
Witnesses described seeing flames and smoke erupting from one of the aircraft's engines as it accelerated down the runway. The pilots quickly reacted, aborting the takeoff and skillfully maneuvering the plane back to the airport. Dramatic video footage captured by passengers shows the intense flames and the rapid response of emergency services.
“It was quite frightening,” said one passenger who wished to remain anonymous. “There was a loud bang, and then we saw the flames. The crew did an amazing job of keeping everyone calm and reassuring us.”
Swift Response from Emergency Crews
LAX's fire and rescue teams were immediately dispatched and responded swiftly to the scene. They worked to extinguish the remaining flames and ensure the safe evacuation of the 237 passengers and 10 crew members on board. No injuries have been reported.
“Our top priority is always the safety of our customers and employees,” stated Delta Airlines in an official release. “We are working to provide support and accommodations to those affected by this incident, and a full investigation is underway to determine the cause of the engine malfunction.”
Investigation Underway
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has launched a full investigation into the incident. The damaged aircraft is being inspected by engineers to assess the extent of the damage and identify the root cause of the engine failure. Preliminary reports suggest a possible mechanical issue, but a definitive conclusion will only be reached after a thorough examination.
The incident has caused significant disruptions to flights at LAX, with several departures and arrivals delayed. Passengers are advised to check with their airlines for the latest updates on flight schedules.
This incident serves as a stark reminder of the potential risks associated with air travel, but also highlights the professionalism and training of airline pilots and emergency responders who ensured a safe outcome in a potentially dangerous situation. The investigation is expected to take several weeks to complete, and the findings will be made public once available.
Update: The NTSB (National Transportation Safety Board) has confirmed they will be assisting the FAA in the investigation. Further details will be released as they become available.