Delta 717 Incident: NTSB Finds Engine Oil Near Zero After Smoke-Filled Flight

A serious in-flight emergency involving a Delta Air Lines Boeing 717 has prompted a detailed investigation by the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), revealing that the aircraft’s right engine was nearly out of oil during the incident.

On February 24, 2025, a Delta Boeing 717-2BD, originally delivered in May 1999 and now 26 years old, was forced to return to Atlanta shortly after takeoff due to a severe onboard emergency. The aircraft is powered by two Rolls-Royce BR715-C1-30 engines and has been a reliable member of Delta’s short-haul fleet, primarily operating domestic routes across the United States. Despite its age, the 717 remains in active service with Delta, valued for its performance and efficiency on shorter routes.

The emergency unfolded as the jet rotated for takeoff. The pilots reported seeing smoke rising from beneath the cockpit floor and immediately donned oxygen masks. At the same time, thick smoke began to fill the cabin, severely limiting visibility for both crew and passengers. The lead flight attendant later described the smoke as “so dense” that visibility did not extend beyond the first row of seats.

As the situation escalated, the crew received a low oil pressure warning for the starboard engine (the right-hand BR715). The pilots shut down the affected engine and declared an emergency with air traffic control, returning swiftly to Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport.

Once safely on the ground, the cockpit crew opened the flightdeck door and were confronted with what the captain described as a “tremendous” amount of smoke in the cabin. A rapid evacuation was ordered, and all 94 passengers and five crew members were safely evacuated. Two passengers sustained minor injuries during the process.

A post-incident inspection revealed that the right engine’s oil reservoir was nearly empty, with no oil visible in the sight glass—a strong indicator that the oil quantity was at or near zero. The NTSB continues to examine the engine's internal components to determine the root cause of the oil loss and how it may have led to the in-flight emergency.

This incident underscores the critical importance of engine monitoring and preventative maintenance, especially on older aircraft. While the Boeing 717 has a solid operational track record, its age and the stresses of regular service make rigorous inspections all the more essential.

As the investigation continues, aviation authorities and industry stakeholders will be watching closely for any findings that could influence future safety practices.