On April 21, 2025, a Delta Air Lines Airbus A330 preparing to depart Orlando International Airport for Atlanta experienced an engine fire during pushback, prompting an immediate emergency evacuation down the aircraft’s slides. Smoke and visible flames in the tailpipe led crew and passengers to exit onto the tarmac in fear, while airport fire and rescue units swiftly contained the blaze. No injuries have been reported, and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) along with Delta maintenance teams are investigating the cause and inspecting the aircraft. Our thoughts are with all those affected and their families as the inquiry continues.
Incident Overview
Just before 11:15 a.m. EDT on Monday, Flight 1213, carrying 282 passengers and 12 crew, was pushing back from Gate A4 when crew members spotted flames in one of the two engines’ tailpipes . Smoke rapidly filled the area around the engine, causing alarm among passengers and ground personnel .
Emergency Evacuation
Following Delta’s safety procedures, flight attendants instructed passengers to leave carry‑on items behind and deploy emergency slides .Within moments, the cabin emptied as passengers and crew evacuated to a safe distance on the tarmac .Orlando International Airport’s Aircraft Rescue and Fire Fighting (ARFF) team arrived immediately, dousing the flames and ensuring the fire did not spread .
Passenger Safety and Well‑Being
Delta Air Lines reported that all onboard exited without injury . Passengers later returned to the terminal, where Delta arranged alternate flights . A third‑party video circulating online showed passengers sliding down to safety, underscoring the seriousness of the situation and the effectiveness of crew training .
Ongoing Investigation
The FAA has opened a formal investigation into the incident to determine what ignited the engine fire . Delta maintenance teams will perform a thorough inspection of the affected Airbus A330 and review engine logs and ground‑handling procedures . Orlando International Airport authorities have also collected ramp surveillance footage to aid investigators .
Broader Safety Context
This event follows a series of recent in‑flight and ground safety scares for Delta, including an aborted takeoff in Atlanta in January and an upside‑down landing in Toronto in February, both resulting in emergency slides and injuries . While aviation remains one of the safest modes of transport, these back‑to‑back incidents have heightened scrutiny of airline maintenance and emergency response protocols .
Community and Passenger Support
Local support teams and Delta’s customer‑care staff provided water, blankets, and counseling services to those evacuated . The airport activated its family‑assistance center to help reunite traveling companions and offer logistical support .
Next Steps and Condolences
As the FAA and Delta collaborate on the technical investigation, passengers are encouraged to monitor official Delta communications for rebooking information .We extend our deepest condolences to all who experienced fear and distress during this event, and we stand with the affected families and travelers while the cause is determined and safety measures are reinforced.