Delta Boeing 737-900ER returns to Atlanta after engine issue

A Delta Air Lines Boeing 737-900ER heading to Raleigh-Durham International Airport turned back to Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport on Thursday, August 20, after the crew reported an engine problem shortly after takeoff.

The aircraft, carrying 173 passengers, landed back in Atlanta without further incident. Emergency crews were not reported to have been required at the airport.

Passengers were later put on another aircraft to complete their journey to Raleigh-Durham, according to the airline. No injuries were reported among those on board.

Delta has not publicly detailed the exact nature of the mechanical fault that prompted the return. The airline said the aircraft was taken out of service so engineers could examine the issue further.

Turnbacks like this are a routine part of airline safety procedure. They let crews deal with suspected mechanical problems on the ground instead of continuing a flight. Beyond the disruption to the affected flight, the incident caused no reported damage.