The terrifying sight of flames erupting from the engine of a Delta Air Lines jet sent waves of panic through Orlando International Airport on Monday, April 21, 2025, as 200 passengers and 12 crew members scrambled to safety in a dramatic evacuation. The Airbus A330-323, identified as Delta Flight 1213, was preparing to depart for Atlanta when the fire broke out in the tailpipe of its No. 2 engine during startup, engulfing the right side of the aircraft in flames and thick black smoke. Travelers inside the terminal, awaiting their own flights, watched in horror as emergency slides deployed and passengers slid to the tarmac, fleeing the burning plane. The swift response of the airport’s fire crews and the professionalism of Delta’s flight crew ensured that no injuries were reported, but the incident has left many shaken and raised urgent questions about aviation safety.
The fire erupted shortly after the aircraft, registered as N807NW, was pushed back from the gate at Orlando International Airport, one of the nation’s busiest hubs. Witnesses described a sudden burst of flames accompanied by plumes of smoke, captured in chilling videos shared widely across social media. One passenger, Dylan Wallace, who was inside the airport at the time, posted footage showing the intensity of the blaze, with emergency responders rushing to the scene. The flight crew, acting out of an abundance of caution, immediately initiated an evacuation, guiding passengers down the emergency slides to safety. Fire crews worked quickly to extinguish the flames, and medics were on hand to assess passengers, though no medical treatment was required.
Delta Air Lines issued a brief statement acknowledging the incident, emphasizing that safety is their top priority. The airline expressed gratitude for the cooperation of passengers and apologized for the disruption, noting that they are working to rebook travelers on alternative flights to reach their destinations as soon as possible. The aircraft has been taken out of service and is undergoing a thorough inspection by Delta’s maintenance teams to determine the cause of the fire. The Federal Aviation Administration has also launched an investigation, with officials expected to examine the engine’s condition, maintenance records, and operational procedures to pinpoint what triggered the blaze.
Orlando International Airport, known for its role as a gateway to Florida’s theme parks and vibrant downtown, continued normal operations despite the incident. The affected runway experienced temporary delays as emergency vehicles cleared the scene, but airport officials reported minimal impact on other flights. The seamless coordination between airport authorities, fire services, and Delta’s ground staff prevented what could have been a far more dangerous situation, earning praise from passengers who credited the crew’s quick decision-making for their safety.
This incident marks the latest in a series of concerning events for Delta Air Lines, which has faced multiple mechanical issues in recent months. In January 2025, a Delta Airbus A330 bound for São Paulo returned to Atlanta after flames were reported in its left engine shortly after takeoff. Earlier this month, three Delta flights made emergency landings due to cabin pressurization problems, raising scrutiny of the airline’s maintenance practices. While Delta has reiterated its commitment to safety, these recurring incidents have sparked public concern and calls for stricter oversight of aircraft maintenance and inspections across the industry.
As the investigation unfolds, passengers and aviation experts alike await answers about what caused the engine fire in Orlando. For now, the safe evacuation of all 212 people aboard Flight 1213 stands as a testament to the training and preparedness of Delta’s crew and the airport’s emergency responders. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the complexities and risks of air travel, even as millions rely on it daily. Delta has promised to provide updates as more information becomes available, and the traveling public will be watching closely for reassurance that such incidents can be prevented in the future.