A Delta Air Lines flight returned to LAX after flames were spotted from its left engine post-takeoff, with all 226 passengers and 9 crew safely evacuated. The incident occurred on July 18, with the aircraft returning just over an hour after departure.
On Friday, July 18, Delta flight 446 took off from Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) but was forced to return and make a safe landing at approximately 2:10 p.m. local time, according to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). Video published by YouTube channel L.A. Flights shows visible flames coming from the plane’s left engine soon after takeoff. In the recording, Josh, one of the channel’s co-owners, can be heard expressing concern over the fire.
The Boeing 767-400 was headed to Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) when it turned back due to the fire. The FAA has confirmed it is currently investigating the matter. A Delta representative explained that the aircraft returned to LAX shortly after takeoff due to a warning related to the left engine.