On Camera, Moment When Atlanta-Bound Delta Plane Caught Fire After Take Off

A scary moment unfolded onboard a Delta Air Lines flight after one of its engines erupted in flames moments after its take-off from Brazil's Sao Paulo airport. The Atlanta-bound aeroplane, an Airbus A330-300 carrying 272 passengers and 14 crew members, was forced to make an emergency landing within minutes of departure. 

The incident happened on Sunday, multiple videos of which have gone viral on social media. One video shows oud bangs and several large flashes sparking on the plane's left side during its ascent from the Guarulhos International Airport into the night sky. This was followed by debris from the engine falling to the ground, causing a small brush fire next to the runway.

Following the Delta A330-323(N813NW) engine failure after departure from São Paulo (GRU), many are asking: what actually happens if an airliner loses an engine just after takeoff?

As passenger in the cabin watching this scenario unfold, the panic is understandable. Seeing flames… pic.twitter.com/7vTod7WHKK

— Turbine Traveller (@Turbinetraveler) March 30, 2026

"Delta 104, there is a fire on your wing," a person from air traffic control can be heard alerting the Delta flight's pilots.

"Affirmative, we need to come back," the pilot responded before declaring an emergency and initiating a turnaround.

Another video shows sparks flying from the plane's engine soon after takeoff as terrified passengers inside the cabin screamed, fearing for their lives.

Delta airplane engine explodes after takeoff—flying from Brazil to Atlanta.

U.S. FAA is gov't authority to last certify this plane safe to fly.

Trump Administration got rid of 1200 FAA workers by firing or buyout—including maintenance mechanics.

"We're going to die!" kids cry.… pic.twitter.com/amwijXMUao

— LongTime🤓FirstTime👨‍💻 (@LongTimeHistory) March 31, 2026

Emergency Landing Within Minutes

As per a Reuters report, the plane landed safely and was met by airport rescue and firefighting teams. Delta, in a statement, said the fire was caused by a "mechanical issue with the aircraft's left engine".

The safety of our customers and crew is our highest priority," the airline said in a statement, apologising for the disruption.

Flight tracking data show that the aircraft was airborne for just over nine minutes before landing back at the airport. Despite the alarming scenes, no injuries were reported.

The airline later confirmed the incident was caused by a "mechanical issue" and said passengers were safely evacuated and transported back to the terminal."

Authorities have launched an investigation to determine the exact cause of the engine failure.