An engine failure involving a Delta Air Lines Boeing 737-900ER on Sunday evening resulted in an emergency return to Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport and a localized brush fire near the primary runway.  

Delta Flight 1067, configured with 179 passengers and six crew members, was cleared for departure to Atlanta at approximately 6:45 p.m. ET. During the initial climb phase, the aircraft’s left CFM56-7B turbofan engine experienced a mechanical malfunction. Witnesses and passengers reported an audible percussive sound followed by a brief exhaust trail of flame, a common symptom of a compressor stall or internal component failure.

Simultaneously, sparks or thermal debris from the failing engine ignited dry grass adjacent to the runway. Combined with prevailing wind conditions, the fire spread across the airfield perimeter, requiring immediate intervention from airport fire and rescue services.  

Flight tracking data confirms the flight crew halted their climb at an altitude of 3,000 feet. Following standard emergency operating procedures for “Engine Fire or Severe Mechanical Damage,” the crew stabilized the aircraft and coordinated a visual approach for a return to the departure airport.

• Departure: 6:45 p.m. ET

• Landing: 7:12 p.m. ET

• Total Flight Time: 27 minutes

The aircraft landed without further incident and was met by emergency vehicles on the taxiway. Passengers remained on board for approximately one hour before deplaning via a standard gate.

Airport responders contained and extinguished the grass fire within 30 minutes. The incident necessitated the temporary suspension of runway operations, leading to several flight diversions and ground delays for trailing traffic.

Delta Air Lines confirmed the return was due to a “mechanical issue” and transitioned passengers to an alternate aircraft. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has initiated a formal investigation to determine the root cause of the power plant failure. No injuries were reported among the passengers or ground staff.