A Delta flight recently experienced an unusual disruption when two pigeons were found inside the cabin. This surprising event unfolded just before the plane was set to leave Minneapolis-Saint Paul International Airport.
Tom Caw, a passenger on board, spotted the first pigeon before takeoff. The pilot quickly informed the control tower, and the plane returned to the gate to handle the situation. As the flight prepared to take off again, a second pigeon made an appearance, flying down the main aisle. This prompted startled screams from passengers, as captured in videos shared on social media.
Caw later shared on Instagram that the pilot was amused by the incident. He said the control tower had never dealt with a bird situation like this before. Interestingly, it was the pilot’s second encounter with a pigeon that day.
Delta Airlines addressed the incident in a statement, expressing appreciation for both crew and passengers who helped ensure the birds were safely removed. They apologized for the delay, which affected travelers heading to Madison, Wisconsin. A baggage handler took care of the second pigeon.
This event might seem bizarre, but it highlights a growing trend of unexpected incidents in air travel. According to a recent survey by the International Air Transport Association (IATA), about 12% of passengers have encountered unusual disruptions during their flights. Such occurrences can lead to mixed reactions on social media, where people often share both humor and frustration.
Caw humorously speculated on Instagram that the pigeons were just looking for snacks. It’s a lighthearted comment reflecting how unexpected situations can also bring some laughter amidst chaos.
In the bigger picture, incidents like this remind us that air travel can be unpredictable. While airlines strive for smooth journeys, quirky events often make great stories. They also prompt discussions about animal safety in airports and in-flight regulations, raising questions about how to better manage wildlife encounters in the future.
For more insights on flight safety and airline operations, check out the FAA’s guidelines.