A Delta Air Lines flight bound for Sydney was forced to return to Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) on Saturday night after smoke was detected onboard. Flight DL43, an Airbus A350-900, departed shortly after 9:00 p.m. but was airborne for only about 30 minutes before making its way back to LAX, according to FlightAware data.
The aircraft landed safely, and passengers disembarked at an arrival gate. Delta confirmed in a statement to CNN that all 162 passengers on board were being accommodated on an alternative flight. The airline emphasized its commitment to safety, stating that the flight crew followed established protocols by returning to LAX as a precautionary measure. “Nothing is more important than the safety of our customers and people,” Delta stated. “That’s why the flight crew followed established procedures to return to Los Angeles (LAX) after smoke was detected in the galley. We apologize to our customers for the delay in their travels.”
Audio from LiveATC.net revealed that while no smoke was present in the cockpit upon landing, pilots requested medical assistance for any passengers who may have been affected by the incident. Delta has not disclosed the source of the smoke or any further details regarding the aircraft’s condition.
CNN has reached out to Los Angeles International Airport and the Los Angeles Fire Department for additional information. No official response has been reported as of now. The incident highlights the airline industry’s strict adherence to safety measures, ensuring that potential hazards are addressed immediately to protect passengers and crew.
Source: Swifteradio.com
