A Delta Air Lines flight from Shanghai to Detroit made an emergency landing at Tokyo’s Haneda Airport on November 28, 2023, due to a hydraulic issue. The aircraft, an Airbus A350-900 operating as Delta Flight 388, was approximately 140 nautical miles (259 kilometers) north of Tokyo when the crew decided to divert to the nearest major airport.
The captain declared an emergency landing, prompting a temporary closure of the runway at Haneda. Emergency services were on standby as the aircraft safely touched down on Runway 34R.
Flight Details and Passenger Impact
Delta Flight 388 had originally departed from Shanghai Pudong International Airport (PVG) at 17:46 local time, aiming for a scheduled arrival at Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport (DTW) at 18:05 the same day. The flight typically takes around 13 hours. Shortly after takeoff, the crew identified a hydraulic problem, which necessitated the diversion.
In a statement, a Delta Air Lines spokesperson emphasized the importance of safety: “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.”
After landing, the aircraft was towed to the gate, and the remaining segments of the flight were subsequently cancelled. Passengers were left stranded in Japan until alternative arrangements could be made.
Aircraft Specifications and Operational History
The Airbus A350-900 involved in this incident, registered as N512DN, is a relatively new aircraft, having entered service in January 2019. This specific model is one of 38 A350-900s in Delta’s fleet, which features a three-class configuration of 32 Business, 48 Premium Economy, and 226 Economy class seats.
Powered by two Rolls-Royce Trent XWB-84 engines, the aircraft had completed its first test flight under the French registration F-WZGE in December 2018. According to ch-aviation data, the aircraft has since been utilized for various long-haul routes by Delta.
Hydraulic issues such as the one experienced on this flight are rare but can lead to uncommanded flight surface movements, prompting airlines to respond with caution. Delta’s decision to divert to Tokyo demonstrates the airline’s commitment to passenger safety.
Following the emergency landing, the A350 remained on the apron at Haneda overnight before being repositioned to Seattle-Tacoma International Airport on November 29, 2023. The aircraft departed as flight DL9888 at 23:14 and arrived in Seattle at 14:26 local time.
With operational adjustments made, the aircraft has since returned to service, operating flights to various destinations, including a journey from Detroit to Seoul on November 30, 2023.
This incident highlights the complexities and challenges of international air travel, where safety protocols remain paramount. Delta Air Lines continues to prioritize the well-being of its passengers and crew while navigating unforeseen technical difficulties.