Overview
• Operator: Delta Airlines
• Aircraft Model: Boeing 717-200
• Registration: N985AT
• Flight Number: DL-786
• Route: Atlanta, GA (ATL) → Lexington, KY (LEX), USA
• Date: 14 February 2025
• Occupants: 95 (Passengers and Crew)
• Nature of Incident: Smoke in Cockpit and Cabin
Incident Summary
Delta Airlines flight DL-786, operated by a Boeing 717-200 (N985AT), was departing Atlanta’s runway 26L en route to Lexington, KY, when the crew reported smoke in both the cockpit and cabin. The aircraft stopped its climb at approximately 7,500 feet, declared an emergency, and returned to Atlanta for a safe landing on runway 08L approximately 15 minutes after departure.
Emergency services were placed on alert, but no injuries were reported.
Sequence of Events
Departure and Smoke Detection
• The aircraft departed from Atlanta’s Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport (ATL) via runway 26L.
• Shortly after takeoff, the crew reported smoke inside the cockpit and cabin, prompting an immediate halt to the climb at 7,500 feet.
• The crew declared an emergency and requested a priority return to Atlanta.
Return and Landing
• ATC cleared the aircraft for an expedited return to Atlanta.
• The aircraft landed safely on runway 08L approximately 15 minutes after departure.
• Passengers remained onboard while emergency personnel assessed the aircraft.
Aircraft Substitution and Investigation
• A replacement Boeing 717-200 (N942AT) was dispatched to complete the flight rotation to Lexington.
• The occurrence aircraft remained grounded for approximately 23 hours before returning to service.
FAA and ATC Communications
• The FAA initially misattributed the emergency to N942AT at Lexington, but ATC communications and radar data confirmed that the incident involved N985AT at Atlanta.
• The FAA will investigate the cause of the smoke event.
Possible Causes & Safety Considerations
Potential Causes
• Electrical Malfunction: Faulty wiring or electrical component failure could cause smoke generation.
• Air Conditioning or Environmental Control System Issue: Contaminants or overheating in the air circulation system could lead to smoke or fumes.
• Hydraulic Fluid or Oil Leak: Fluid leaks near hot engine components can generate smoke that enters the cabin.
Preventative Measures & Safety Protocols
• Regular maintenance checks of cabin and flight deck electrical systems.
• Enhanced monitoring of air circulation and filtration systems.
• Immediate crew response protocols for smoke-related events, including emergency diversions.
Aircraft Status
• Occurrence Aircraft (N985AT): Remained grounded for approximately 23 hours before returning to service.
• Replacement Aircraft (N942AT): Performed the scheduled flight to Lexington without incident.
Disclaimer
This report is based on available information as of 18 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.
