Airbus A321-200 landed safely back at Hartsfield-Jackson after encountering a technical issue shortly after departure.
ATLANTA — A Delta Air Lines flight bound for Fort Lauderdale was forced to make an emergency return to Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport shortly after departure following a technical malfunction.
Delta Flight DL1334, operated by an Airbus A321-200 (registration N363DN), pushed back from gate D1A and took off from runway 27R. Shortly into the departure climb, the crew halted their ascent at 5,900 feet due to an undisclosed technical issue.
Recognizing the problem, the flight crew immediately transmitted a general emergency squawk code (7700) to air traffic control and requested a priority return to Atlanta.
Air traffic controllers vectored the aircraft back for a landing on runway 27R. The jet touched down safely just 15 minutes after initial departure.
After rolling out, the Airbus vacated the active runway under its own power. Airport fire and rescue services were deployed to inspect the aircraft on the taxiway as a standard precautionary measure following an emergency landing. Delta is expected to make alternative arrangements for passengers heading to South Florida.
UPDATE
The aircraft taxied to runway A06. The airline is confirming the flight is delayed.
UPDATE
Smoke was reported on board. Pilots had to wear oxygen masks.
