DOTHAN, Ala. — Passengers aboard a Delta Airlines flight bound for Atlanta were left stranded for several hours in Dothan on Wednesday afternoon after a bird strike forced the plane to make an emergency landing.
The flight, which had departed from Northwest Florida Beaches International Airport shortly after 3:00 p.m., encountered the unexpected incident shortly after takeoff. A bird struck the left wing on the leading edge, prompting the flight crew to initiate an emergency landing at Dothan Regional Airport (DHN) at approximately 3:30 p.m.
DHN Director Adam Hartzog confirmed the emergency landing, telling WDHN News that passengers were safely escorted off the aircraft while airline staff conducted a thorough inspection of the plane for potential damage. The inspection took approximately four hours, during which time passengers waited at the airport for further updates.
“We took all necessary precautions to ensure the safety of the passengers and the aircraft,” said Hartzog. “After a detailed inspection, the plane was cleared, and passengers were able to continue their journey.”
By 8:00 p.m., the plane was deemed safe to continue its flight, and passengers were allowed to board once again. The flight resumed its journey to Atlanta, where it arrived several hours behind schedule.
While the delay caused frustration for many travelers, the swift response from both the airline and airport officials helped ensure the safety and well-being of everyone aboard.
