Overview
• Operator: Delta Airlines
• Aircraft Model: Airbus A321-200
• Registration: N356DN
• Flight Number: DL-401
• Route: Dallas Fort Worth, TX (USA) to Atlanta, GA (USA)
• Date: 1 February 2025
• Occupants: Passengers & Crew (Number Unspecified)
• Nature of Incident: Smoke in Cabin & Cockpit
• Investigation: Ongoing
Incident Summary
Delta Airlines flight DL-401, operating an Airbus A321-200, was climbing through FL240 out of Dallas Fort Worth when the crew donned their oxygen masks and declared an emergency due to smoke on board. The aircraft immediately turned back and landed safely on Dallas’ runway 17R approximately 35 minutes after departure.
A passenger onboard reported that emergency lights illuminated in the cabin shortly after departure, and the captain initially announced an electrical issue. Later, the crew confirmed the presence of fumes in the cockpit.
Upon landing, the aircraft was met by emergency services. Fire engines escorted the aircraft to the gate, and firefighters boarded to consult with the flight crew while passengers disembarked.
Sequence of Events
Departure & Climb
• The aircraft departed from Dallas Fort Worth and climbed through FL240 when the issue was detected.
• The crew donned oxygen masks, indicating smoke or fumes in the cockpit.
Emergency Declaration & Return
• The crew declared an emergency and informed ATC of the situation.
• The aircraft turned back and landed safely on runway 17R in Dallas approximately 35 minutes after departure.
Ground Response & Passenger Reports
• Fire services conducted an external inspection upon landing.
• Two firefighters boarded the aircraft and spoke with the captain while passengers disembarked.
• A passenger reported that emergency lights had illuminated in the cabin early in the flight, and the captain initially cited an electrical issue before confirming the presence of fumes.
Investigation & Preliminary Findings
• The aircraft remained on the ground for 7 hours and 45 minutes for inspections before being cleared to continue its flight.
• Maintenance crews investigated the source of the smoke/fumes, likely focusing on the following areas:
• Electrical systems (wiring, circuit breakers, avionics overheating).
• Environmental control system (air conditioning packs, bleed air system leaks).
• Cabin materials (possible overheated component or malfunctioning equipment).
• Delta Airlines has not released official findings on the cause of the incident, but similar past occurrences have been linked to electrical malfunctions, air conditioning system failures, or burning odours from avionics components.
Analysis & Recommendations
Airworthiness Considerations
• Airbus A321 aircraft are equipped with multiple air filtration and smoke detection systems.
• Any smoke or fume event, particularly in the cockpit, is treated as a high-priority emergency due to potential fire risks.
• The crew’s prompt decision to return to Dallas was in accordance with standard operating procedures for in-flight smoke emergencies.
Operational Impact
• The aircraft was inspected and later cleared for service, departing to Atlanta approximately 8 hours late.
• A full post-flight investigation will determine whether additional corrective maintenance actions are required before the aircraft is returned to regular operations.
Aircraft Status & Next Steps
• The aircraft returned to service after inspections and successfully completed its delayed flight to Atlanta.
• Delta Airlines and aviation authorities may conduct further analysis if systemic issues are suspected.
• If a recurring issue is found, Airbus and Delta may issue technical service bulletins or implement fleet-wide maintenance checks.
Disclaimer
This report is based on available information as of 2 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.
