Delta Flight Returns to Savannah Airport After Engine Issue Sparks Grass Fire

Passengers safely deplaned after mechanical problem led to emergency landing and fire response.

Published on Feb. 23, 2026

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A Delta Airlines flight from Savannah to Atlanta had to turn around and make an emergency landing at Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport on Sunday evening after a mechanical issue with the left engine sparked a grass fire on the airport grounds. Emergency crews from multiple local fire departments responded to the scene, but there were no reported injuries and flights were not impacted.

Why it matters

Mechanical issues with aircraft engines can pose serious risks to passenger safety, and the quick response from local fire departments helped prevent the situation from escalating. This incident highlights the importance of robust emergency protocols at airports to address unexpected emergencies.

The details

According to officials, Delta flight 1067 took off from Savannah around 7 PM but had to turn around shortly after due to a mechanical problem with the left engine. This triggered a grass fire on the airport premises. Emergency crews from the Garden City Fire-Rescue, Savannah Fire Department, Pooler Fire-Rescue, and the 165th Airlift Wing Fire Department responded to the scene to contain the fire. All passengers were able to safely deplane at the gate, and there were no reported injuries. The airport's operations were not disrupted by the incident.

  • The incident occurred just before 7 PM on Sunday, February 22, 2026.
  • Delta released a statement about the incident around 10 PM the same evening.

The players

Delta Airlines

A major U.S. airline that operates the flight from Savannah to Atlanta where the mechanical issue occurred.

Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport

The airport where the Delta flight made an emergency landing and where the grass fire broke out.

Garden City Fire-Rescue

One of the local fire departments that responded to the grass fire at the Savannah airport.

Savannah Fire Department

Another local fire department that assisted in responding to the grass fire at the Savannah airport.

Pooler Fire-Rescue

A third local fire department that helped contain the grass fire at the Savannah airport.

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What they’re saying

“Delta flight 1067 from Savannah to Atlanta returned to the airport soon after takeoff Sunday evening, following a mechanical issue with the aircraft's left engine. The Boeing 737-900 landed safely and was met by fire trucks, with customers deplaning at the gate. The safety of our customers and crew is our highest priority. We are working to reaccommodate all customers on alternate flights. We apologize to our customers for this delay in their travels.”

— Delta Airlines Spokesperson (wesh.com)

What’s next

Delta Airlines is working to rebook passengers on alternate flights following the incident. The cause of the mechanical issue with the engine is still under investigation.

The takeaway

This emergency landing and grass fire response at Savannah's airport highlights the importance of robust safety protocols and emergency preparedness at airports to quickly address unexpected mechanical failures or other incidents that could put passenger safety at risk. The quick actions of local fire departments helped prevent a potentially more serious situation.