Two people have been killed and another seriously injured after a Boeing passenger plane’s tire exploded at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport in Georgia.
A Delta Air Lines employee and a contractor were killed on Tuesday morning, Channel 2 Action News reported.
Sources told the local news outlet workers were removing the Delta plane tire in a maintenance area at the airport when it exploded.
Delta Air Lines confirmed that two people were killed in the accident, and another person was seriously injured.
It remains unclear what caused the plane’s tire to explode.
In a statement, the airline said:
“The Delta family is heartbroken at 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).
“We have extended 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 site.
“We are now working with local authorities and conducting a full investigation to determine what happened.”
As of early Tuesday afternoon, authorities have not yet identified any of the victims.
There was no update on the condition of the injured Delta employee.
Channel 2 Action News reported that flight information showed that the airplane landed in Atlanta from Las Vegas on Sunday night.
Airport officials confirmed that the deadly incident has not affected any other flights.
The Atlanta airport is considered the busiest in the world.
“I offer my deepest condolences to the family and loved ones of the deceased Delta employees,” Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens said.
“My thoughts are also with those who were injured, and I hope for their swift and full recovery.
“AFRD, APD, and HJAIA teams are on the scene, working diligently to address the situation.”
WATCH:
It is understood the Boeing 757 arrived in Atlanta from Las Vegas on Sunday night, WSB-TV reported.
Flight Radar tracking data reveals the plane had completed four short-haul trips on Sunday between Tampa, Atlanta, and Las Vegas.
The incident comes just months after another Delta Boeing lost its nose wheel while attempting to take off from the same airport.
The President and Chief of Operations of Delta TechOps, John Laughter, issued a note to staff on Tuesday morning.
He acknowledged that the tragedy is “heartbreaking for us all.”
“I’m deeply saddened to share that three TechOps team members were involved in an accident that took place early this morning in Atlanta… Wheel & Brake Shop,” Laughter said.
“Please know your safety and well-being come first – always, and that your leaders are here for you.
“Please continue to take good care of yourself and one another.
“We’re all in this together, and we’ll get through this by supporting each other.”
Laughter said resources will remain onsite to assist for as long as required.
Distressed staff have been directed to the HR department, with 24/7 counseling service offered to employees.
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