A Delta Air Lines regional jet scraped its left wing on the runway at New York’s LaGuardia Airport late Sunday night during an aborted landing attempt, according to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). No injuries were reported.
The incident occurred around 10:10 p.m. EDT when Endeavor Air Flight 4814, operating on behalf of Delta, attempted a go-around due to an unstable approach. The FAA confirmed the aircraft’s left wingtip made contact with the runway before the crew regained control and completed a safe landing.
The flight originated in Jacksonville, Florida, carrying 76 passengers and four crew members. Delta stated the crew adhered to standard safety protocols to execute the go-around and subsequently taxied to the gate without further issue.
The FAA has launched an investigation to determine the factors contributing to the incident. Delta reaffirmed its commitment to passenger safety, praising the crew’s handling of the situation.
Go-arounds are a routine safety measure when pilots determine that landing conditions are not optimal, often due to weather, approach angles, or other factors affecting stability. The maneuver is designed to prioritize safety by allowing a second approach under better conditions.
LaGuardia, one of the busiest airports serving New York City, frequently manages high-density air traffic and challenging wind patterns, making precision landings a necessity. Sunday’s event underscores the critical role of pilot training and split-second decision-making in ensuring passenger safety during unpredictable situations.
