Delta flight makes emergency landing after engine failure

Plane forced to return to Savannah airport after engine fire during takeoff

Published on Feb. 23, 2026

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A Delta Air Lines Boeing 737 was forced to make an emergency landing at Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport on Sunday after one of its engines failed shortly after takeoff, causing a grass fire next to the runway. The pilots were able to safely return the plane to the airport, and all passengers deplaned normally at the gate. No injuries were reported.

Why it matters

Engine failures on commercial flights are rare but can pose serious risks to passenger safety if not handled properly by the flight crew. This incident highlights the importance of pilot training and aircraft maintenance to ensure the safe operation of airliners, especially during critical phases of flight like takeoff and landing.

The details

According to reports, the left engine on the Delta flight 1067 from Savannah to Atlanta experienced a mechanical failure, causing a loud boom and sparks shortly after the plane left the runway. The pilots immediately initiated an emergency return to the Savannah airport, where fire crews were waiting. The engine failure resulted in a grass fire next to the runway, but the Boeing 737-900 was able to land safely, and all passengers were able to deplane normally at the gate.

  • The incident occurred on Sunday evening, February 23, 2026.
  • The plane had just taken off from Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport when the engine failure happened.

The players

Delta Air Lines

A major U.S. airline that operates a fleet of Boeing 737 and other aircraft for domestic and international passenger service.

Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport

A commercial airport serving the Savannah, Georgia metropolitan area.

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What they’re saying

“What a relief and a huge shoutout to the incredible pilot and crew of Delta Flight DL1067—engines blew during takeoff en route to Atlanta—but they expertly looped back and landed everyone safely.”

— Holly Kesler (X)

“During takeoff, it felt like within a couple seconds of when the wheels left the runway that we heard this loud boom, and we saw sparks flying. It was almost like the sound of a car engine that back fired but ten times as loud. You could tell there was a lot of fear on the plane just from the passengers.”

— Melissa Johnson, Passenger (WSAV)

“I've been informed that an aircraft incident resulted in a grass fire at our beloved SAV airport, after which the aircraft safely returned. Thankfully, there are no reported injuries. We are grateful that everyone is safe.”

— Van Johnson, Savannah City Mayor (N/A)

What’s next

The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) will investigate the cause of the engine failure and issue a report on their findings.

The takeaway

This incident serves as a reminder of the importance of rigorous aircraft maintenance and pilot training to ensure passenger safety, even in the face of unexpected mechanical failures during critical phases of flight. The quick actions of the flight crew in this case likely prevented a much more serious outcome.