On April 22, 2025, a Delta Airlines flight departing from Orlando International Airport was forced to make a dramatic emergency evacuation after an engine fire ignited shortly after takeoff. The incident, which unfolded in the early hours of the morning, prompted a swift and coordinated response from the flight crew and emergency personnel on the ground.
A Sudden Emergency
Flight 467, a Boeing 737, was en route from Orlando to New York City when the incident occurred. Just minutes into the flight, passengers reported hearing a loud bang followed by a sudden jolt. Many passengers described feeling an immediate drop in altitude as the aircraft began to bank sharply to the left. Witnesses reported seeing thick smoke billowing from one of the engines as the pilot quickly initiated an emergency return to the airport.
The aircraft, carrying 180 passengers and crew members, was rapidly descending back toward the runway at Orlando International when the fire worsened. According to reports, the fire was visible from the ground, prompting local fire departments to prepare for a worstcase scenario.
Quick Response from the Flight Crew
The pilot and crew acted swiftly, following established protocols for such emergencies. Within moments of the engine fire becoming evident, the plane began a sharp and controlled descent. The flight crew sent out an emergency distress signal and instructed the cabin crew to prepare for an evacuation.
Passenger accounts highlighted the calm professionalism of the Delta flight attendants, who reassured the passengers even as the fire became more intense. The flight attendants were amazing, one passenger recalled. They were firm but calm, directing us to the exits without panicking.
As the plane touched down safely back at Orlando, emergency vehicles were already in position, waiting for the aircraft to arrive. The plane skidded to a halt near the runway, with flames licking the engines side, prompting immediate evacuation procedures.
Evacuation via Emergency Slides
As soon as the plane came to a stop, the emergency slides were deployed, and passengers were swiftly evacuated. Some passengers were seen leaving the plane on the slides with the assistance of emergency personnel. Others were safely ushered to the waiting tarmac, where they were transported to the terminal via ground vehicles. Despite the intense heat from the fire, no major injuries were reported, although a few individuals sustained minor injuries during the evacuation process.
The fire was eventually contained by firefighters, who worked tirelessly to prevent further damage. The engine, however, sustained significant damage, and the aircraft was deemed unfit for further use. Delta Airlines later confirmed that the planes engine malfunctioned, leading to the fire, but officials declined to comment on the specific cause of the malfunction.
Investigation Underway
The National Transportation Safety Board NTSB has initiated an investigation into the cause of the engine failure. In the coming days, the agency will examine the flight data recorders and other key pieces of evidence to determine the underlying factors that led to the fire.
While the investigation is still in its early stages, aviation experts have pointed out that the prompt actions of the flight crew and ground personnel likely prevented what could have been a much worse scenario. Experts are also focusing on whether weather conditions or mechanical failure contributed to the incident.
Deltas Response
Delta Airlines issued a statement expressing gratitude that all passengers and crew were safely evacuated and promised full cooperation with the ongoing investigation. The safety of our passengers and crew is always our top priority, said Delta CEO Ed Bastian. We are deeply relieved that everyone on board Flight 467 is safe and we will continue to work with investigators to determine the cause of the engine fire.
Additionally, Delta announced plans to conduct a thorough inspection of their fleet to ensure that such an incident does not occur again. The airline also extended its apologies to the passengers on board, offering them full refunds and vouchers for future travel.
Public Reaction
The incident has sparked a wave of concern and discussion among frequent flyers and aviation enthusiasts alike. Social media platforms were flooded with firsthand accounts from passengers, many of whom praised the flight crews calmness and the rapid response of the emergency services.
That was terrifying, but I have to give credit to Delta and the flight attendants, one passenger tweeted. They kept us informed and made sure we got off the plane quickly and safely. Im just happy to be alive.
Looking Forward
While the ordeal was frightening for those on board, the successful evacuation and swift emergency response demonstrate the resilience of both the airline and emergency services. In the coming weeks, as the investigation unfolds, further details will emerge regarding the exact cause of the fire, but one thing is clear: the quick thinking of the crew, along with the prompt evacuation procedures, ensured that what could have been a disaster was instead a narrow escape for all involved.
For now, Delta Airlines and Orlando International Airport are both focused on providing support to those affected and ensuring that future flights will proceed with an extra layer of vigilance as safety protocols are reevaluated in light of this incident.