Two Delta employees killed and one injured after airplane tires explode at Atlanta airport

Two people are dead and one person was injured after a tire on a Delta plane exploded at Hartsfield–Jackson Atlanta International Airport.

The tire explosion killed a Delta employee and a contract worker, local station WSBTV reports. A second Delta employee was also injured. The incident occurred early Tuesday morning at the Atlanta Technical Operations Maintenance facility, which is connected to the airport.

“The Delta family is deeply saddened by the loss of two team members and the injury of another following an incident this morning at the Atlanta Technical Operations Maintenance Facility (TOC 3),” the Atlanta-based airline said in a statement. “We have pledged our full support to family members and colleagues during this incredibly difficult time.”

“The Delta family is grateful for the quick action of first responders and medical teams on the scene,” the statement continued. “We are now working with local authorities and conducting a full investigation to determine what happened.”

The explosion did not affect airport operations, said a spokesman for Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport. The Independent. Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International is the busiest airport in the world. The travel hub reported more than 104 million passengers in 2023.

Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens also issued a statement on the incident.

“I extend my deepest condolences to the family and loved ones of the deceased Delta employees,” he said.

“My thoughts are also with the injured and I hope for their quick and full recovery,” he continued. “The AFRD, APD and HJAIA teams are on site and are working diligently to manage the situation.”

The International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers, a union that represents aviation workers across the country, also commented.

“As a union committed to the well-being and safety of our members and the broader community, we will offer our resources to anyone affected by this tragic event,” the organization said. “We stand with Delta workers during this difficult time and call on Delta and the appropriate authorities to quickly launch a thorough investigation to determine how this happened.”

More to follow …