Delta Flight Turns Back: Mysterious Odor Sickens Crew on Paris-Bound Plane
Staff Editor Delta Flight Returns to Boston After Mysterious Odor Sickens Crew
A Delta Air Lines flight bound for Paris was forced to return to Boston’s Logan International Airport after a strange odor on board raised concerns and caused several crew members to fall ill. The Airbus A330 had been in the air for less than an hour when the decision was made to turn back over Nova Scotia.
According to the Transportation Safety Board of Canada (TSB), the incident began even before takeoff. The captain reported eye discomfort while taxiing, and the first officer detected a slight odor prior to departure. However, the situation escalated once the plane was airborne, with flight attendants reporting a noticeable smell in the cabin.
As the flight progressed, several flight attendants began feeling unwell. Passengers also complained about the mysterious odor. In response, the pilots executed the fume checklist and made the decision to return to Boston.
Upon landing, the captain, first officer, and five flight attendants were taken to a local hospital for evaluation. All crew members were subsequently released after medical checks.
A Delta spokesperson emphasized the airline’s commitment to safety, stating, “The flight crew followed procedures to return to Boston after detecting the odor. The aircraft landed without incident and proceeded to the gate normally.” The airline also issued an apology to customers for the disruption and delay.
The cause of the odor remains unclear. Maintenance personnel replaced the aircraft’s recirculation filters as a precautionary measure. The plane was returned to service two days after the incident.
This event follows a similar occurrence involving a British Airways Airbus A380, which made an emergency landing due to an “overpowering scent” of laundry detergent that left passengers feeling sick and dizzy.
As airlines continue to prioritize passenger and crew safety, incidents like these serve as reminders of the complex challenges faced in maintaining a safe and comfortable flying environment.
