More than 20 fire trucks responded after reports of possible smoke coming from one engine on Flight 1676.
SAN ANTONIO — Moments after Delta Flight 1676 attempted to leave San Antonio for Atlanta Tuesday morning, the crew noticed a problem and asked for an emergency return.
Audio transmissions on the Broadcastify app captured the conversation between the jet, which Delta said was carrying 142 people, and the airport tower.
The call for help was simple “1676 emergency for runway 22,” and the controller gave the plane clearance to return, which it did within minutes.
The tower announced “Be advised emergency aircraft is inbound approximately five minutes out.”
The San Antonio Fire Department responded immediately.
The fire trucks stationed on the airport grounds were joined by apparatus from nearby, with the fire dispatch screen indicating a total of more than 20 trucks responded.
On background, Delta said the Airbus A320 aircraft showed a potential mechanical issue with one of the aircraft’s two engines.
The audio transmission indicates “Engine number 2 is running. We got a fire indication that went away when we pulled it to idle, so it is it is running.”
After an all clear from the fire department and with the plane safely back at the terminal, the airline statement indicates “Delta maintenance teams are evaluating the aircraft. Customers have been reaccommodated on alternative Delta flights to ensure they reach their final destinations as safely and quickly as possible.”
The official statement reads: “As safety comes before all else, Delta flight 1676 returned to San Antonio after the crew received an indication of a potential engine issue after takeoff. We apologize to our customers for the delay in their travels.”