According to flight records, the three were working on a Boeing 757 jet that arrived from Las Vegas on Sunday night.
Delta was cooperating with local authorities and “conducting a full investigation to determine what happened”, the company said in a statement.
“The Delta family is heartbroken at the loss of two team members and the injury of another following an incident this morning. We have extended our full support to family members and colleagues during this incredibly difficult time,” it said.
“The Delta family is grateful for the quick action of first responders and medical teams on site.”
The mayor of Atlanta, Andre Dickens, tweeted his sympathy. “I offer my deepest condolences to the family and loved ones of the deceased Delta employees,” he wrote. “My thoughts are also with those who were injured, and I hope for their swift and full recovery.”
The International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM), a union that says it represents more than 100,000 airline workers across the US, said the group’s members also wanted a full inquiry into Tuesday’s deaths.
“IAM stands in solidarity with the community of Atlanta and expresses our deepest condolences to the victims’ families following the tragic incident that occurred this morning,” it said in a statement.
“As a union dedicated to the well-being and safety of our members and the broader community, we will offer our resources to all those impacted by this tragic event.
“We stand in unity with Delta workers during this difficult time and we call on Delta and the relevant authorities to quickly launch a thorough investigation into how this happened.”
Investigation Underway
The incident prompted a swift response from authorities. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) announced it was in contact with Delta and cooperating with the investigation. The agency said that flight operations at the airport were unaffected by the incident.
Delta Air Lines emphasized its commitment to investigating the incident thoroughly, outlining its plans to collaborate with local authorities to determine the root cause of the explosion. The airline also expressed its support for the families of the deceased and the injured worker.
Impact of the Tragedy
The tragedy has shaken the aviation industry, highlighting the risks inherent in aircraft maintenance. The incident also serves as a reminder of the importance of workplace safety measures and thorough investigations to prevent similar occurrences. The incident underscores the need for a comprehensive examination of safety protocols and procedures within the airline industry.
Aftermath
The incident at the Atlanta airport has sparked widespread concern over the safety of aviation maintenance procedures. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the dangers faced by those who work in the aviation industry, particularly those involved in maintenance operations. It is crucial that the investigation into the tire explosion is thorough and comprehensive, with a focus on identifying the underlying causes and implementing measures to prevent such tragedies from occurring in the future.
Lessons Learned
The tragedy at the Atlanta airport serves as a critical reminder of the importance of workplace safety protocols and thorough investigations. It is imperative that investigations into such incidents are comprehensive, examining all aspects of the incident, including the procedures, equipment, and training involved. The aviation industry, including airlines and regulatory bodies, must remain vigilant in their efforts to ensure the safety of workers and passengers. The tragic loss of life is a stark reminder of the importance of prioritizing safety in all aspects of aviation operations.
