A Delta Connection flight skidded off an icy runway late Saturday night. Flight 5087, a Bombardier CRJ-900, arrived from Detroit at Des Moines International Airport around 9:30 PM local time.
The pilot encountered slick conditions during landing. Suddenly the plane veered off the taxiway and came to a stop in the grass.
Passengers described the moment as frightening. One traveler recalled the aircraft sliding without warning. However no one suffered injuries. The 58 people on board, including crew, remained calm amid the chaos.
Quick Response Ensures Safety
Air crews reacted quickly. They evacuated all passengers safely, returning them to the terminal by bus. Delta officials confirmed that icy weather created the slide. Meanwhile, crews checked the plane for damage.
The airline also provided support to inconvenienced travelers. They provided rebookings, available accommodations to delayed passengers.
Impact on Airport Operations
The incident forced a temporary shutdown of the airport. Officials closed runways for several hours to clear the scene and inspect conditions. As a result, flights experienced cancellations and diversions.
Snow from a recent storm contributed to the hazardous surfaces.Furthermore, post-Thanksgiving travel saw disruptions. Many passengers waited longer than expected for their journeys home.
Ongoing Investigation
The Federal Aviation Administration launched an inquiry right away. Experts will examine weather data, pilot actions, and maintenance records. Delta pledged full cooperation with investigators.
In conclusion, this event highlights winter travel risks. Yet swift actions prevented a worse outcome. Authorities urge airlines to enhance safety measures during icy seasons.
