Delta A350 Diverts to Tokyo After Hydraulic Emergency Mid-Flight

A Delta Air Lines flight traveling from Shanghai to Detroit was diverted to Tokyo on November 28, 2019, due to a hydraulic issue. The Airbus A350-900, operating as Delta Flight 388, was approximately 140 nautical miles (259 km) north of Tokyo when the crew decided to declare an emergency. As a precaution, the aircraft was met by emergency services upon landing at Tokyo Haneda Airport (HND), which temporarily closed the runway.

The flight had departed from Shanghai Pudong International Airport (PVG) at 17:46 local time and was scheduled to reach Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport (DTW) after a typical 13-hour journey. Shortly after entering Japanese airspace, the flight crew identified a hydraulic problem, prompting the decision to divert to the nearest major airport for safety reasons.

According to a spokesperson for Delta Air Lines, “On November 28, the crew of Delta flight 388 followed procedures to divert to Tokyo-Haneda after reporting a mechanical issue while en route from Shanghai to Detroit. The aircraft landed safely, and we apologize to our customers for the delay in their travel plans. Nothing is more important than the safety of our customers and crew.”

Emergency Landing and Aftermath

The A350 was greeted by emergency teams upon its arrival at Haneda, where the runway remained closed for approximately 30 minutes. After landing on Runway 34R, the aircraft was towed to the gate, leading to the cancellation of the flight.

Flight data from Flightradar24 indicates that the aircraft, registered as N512DN, remained on the apron overnight. On November 29, the plane was repositioned to Seattle-Tacoma International Airport, departing Haneda as DL9888 at 23:14 and arriving in Seattle at 14:26 the following day. A corresponding flight was then added to Detroit, landing at 23:02 on the same day. The aircraft has since returned to service, operating routes from Detroit to Seoul and then to Atlanta.

The Airbus A350-900 involved in this incident has been in operation since its delivery to Delta on January 26, 2019. It is part of a fleet of 38 A350-900s and features a three-class configuration with 32 Business, 48 Premium Economy, and 226 Economy class seats.

Understanding Hydraulic Issues

Hydraulic problems on aircraft like the Airbus A350 are uncommon but can lead to serious safety concerns, including uncommanded flight surface movements. Such risks necessitate immediate and cautious action from flight crews, as demonstrated in this incident. Delta Air Lines has a history of prioritizing safety, and the decision to divert to Tokyo reflects their commitment to passenger well-being.

As the aviation industry continues to navigate challenges, incidents such as these highlight the importance of safety protocols and the quick responses of airline crews. Delta Air Lines is expected to conduct a thorough inspection of the aircraft to address the hydraulic issue and ensure its continued safe operation in the future.