Nearly 300 people slide to safety after aircraft engine catches fire

A Delta Air Lines flight bound for Atlanta was evacuated Monday morning at Orlando International Airport after one of its engines caught fire just after pushback, prompting emergency slides to be deployed.

According to the Federal Aviation Administration, the incident involved an Airbus A330 carrying 282 passengers and 12 crew. The aircraft was preparing for departure at around 11:15 a.m. EDT when flames were spotted coming from one of its engines. Delta said flight crews acted swiftly, following protocol to evacuate the plane.

“No injuries have been reported,” the airline confirmed in a statement. “Maintenance teams are currently inspecting the aircraft, and alternative flights are being arranged to accommodate affected passengers.”

Videos circulating on social media captured flames erupting from the aircraft and passengers sliding down emergency chutes onto the tarmac. Orlando airport authorities confirmed the incident occurred in the ramp area and praised the fast response of their firefighting units.

The FAA has launched an investigation into the cause of the fire. The incident adds to growing safety concerns following a recent series of aviation-related emergencies across the U.S.

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