Delta Air Lines is investigating a tragic accident that occurred on Tuesday morning at its maintenance facility near Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, resulting in the deaths of two workers and serious injury to a third. The incident took place at the airline’s wheel and brake shop, part of Delta’s Technical Operations Maintenance (TechOps) division.
The victims were identified by the Clayton County Medical Examiner’s Office as Mirko Marweg, 58, from Stone Mountain, Georgia, and Luis Aldarondo, 37, from Newnan, Georgia. The third worker, who has not been named, was seriously injured and is currently receiving medical care.
Delta Air Lines expressed deep sorrow over the loss, stating, “The Delta family is heartbroken at the loss of two team members and the injury of another following an incident this morning at the Atlanta Technical Operations Maintenance facility.” The airline assured that they are providing full support to the affected families and colleagues during this difficult time.
The exact cause of the accident remains under investigation. Initial reports from the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers suggest that a tire explosion may have been involved, although this has not been confirmed by Delta. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) are both involved in the ongoing investigation.
Despite the severity of the incident, operations at the Atlanta airport were not impacted, according to an airport spokesperson. Delta thanked first responders and medical teams for their prompt assistance and emphasized its commitment to uncovering the cause of the accident through a thorough investigation.
John Laughter, Delta’s Executive Vice President and President of TechOps, addressed the situation in a note to staff, reassuring them that counselors would be made available to help employees cope with the tragedy. “We’re all in this together, and we’ll get through this by supporting each other,” Laughter stated.
The union representing the aerospace workers has called for a swift and comprehensive investigation to determine how the accident occurred. This incident has heightened safety concerns at the facility, which is a key component of Delta’s global maintenance, repair, and overhaul operations, serving not only Delta’s fleet but also those of over 150 aviation customers worldwide.
Delta’s investigation is ongoing, and the airline has pledged to work closely with authorities to ensure a thorough examination of the circumstances surrounding the accident.