Overview
• Operator: Delta Air Lines
• Aircraft Model: Airbus A350-900
• Registration: N514DN
• Flight Number: DL-43
• Route: Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) to Sydney Kingsford Smith Airport (SYD)
• Date: 22 February 2025
• Occupants: 162 passengers, 15 crew
• Casualties: None reported
• Nature of Incident: Smoke detected in galley area during climb
Incident Summary
A Delta Air Lines Airbus A350-900, operating as flight DL-43 from Los Angeles (LAX) to Sydney (SYD), was climbing out of runway 25R when the crew detected smoke in a galley area.
The crew immediately stopped the climb at 10,000 feet and made the decision to return to Los Angeles. Approximately 30 minutes after departure, the aircraft made a safe landing on runway 25L.
After touchdown, the crew reported that smoke was no longer present on board, confirming there had been no smoke intrusion into the cockpit. Nevertheless, as a precautionary measure, the crew requested medical services to be on standby at the gate in case of potential smoke inhalation by passengers or crew.
Due to initial delays at their assigned gate (gate 30), the crew informed air traffic control (ATC) they still required immediate gate access, emphasizing the earlier presence of smoke and fumes. The aircraft subsequently taxied to the gate with emergency services following closely behind.
The flight was later cancelled.
Sequence of Events
Pre-incident Conditions:
• The aircraft departed normally from runway 25R at LAX with no reported technical anomalies prior to takeoff.
In-flight Occurrence:
• Shortly after takeoff, during initial climb, the cabin crew detected smoke in one of the aircraft’s galleys.
• The flight crew, informed of the smoke condition, halted the climb at 10,000 feet and decided to return to Los Angeles.
Landing & Emergency Response:
• The aircraft performed a safe landing on runway 25L approximately 30 minutes after departure.
• Upon landing, the crew reported the smoke condition had cleared but requested medical assistance at the gate as a precaution.
• Despite an occupied assigned gate (gate 30), the crew reiterated the urgency of their situation and began taxiing immediately. Emergency vehicles escorted the aircraft to the gate.
Investigation & Initial Findings
• Initial assessments indicated that smoke was limited to the galley area.
• Delta Air Lines confirmed the return was precautionary following smoke detection in the galley.
• No immediate source of the smoke was publicly identified; however, typical causes under investigation could include:
• Galley equipment malfunction (ovens, coffee makers)
• Electrical system short-circuit or overheating
• Foreign materials causing smoke within galley appliances
• A detailed inspection of galley systems and equipment is expected.
Analysis & Safety Recommendations
• Crews should remain vigilant and responsive to smoke and fumes indications, particularly in areas like galleys where electrical appliances present fire risks.
• Airlines should ensure that cabin and flight crews are trained in the rapid identification and isolation of smoke sources.
• Maintenance protocols should include routine checks and servicing of galley electrical equipment to minimize risks of overheating or electrical faults.
• Emergency gate access procedures should be reviewed to guarantee rapid response and clearance in smoke or fumes-related incidents.
Disclaimer
“This report is based on available information as of 23 February 2025. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, the completeness of the details cannot be guaranteed. If you are the rightful owner of any referenced materials and wish them removed, please email takedown@cockpitking.com.”
