The International Association of Machinists (IAM), a union striving to organize ground workers at Delta Air Lines, has called for an investigation into a reported tire explosion at Atlanta’s Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport that resulted in the deaths of two Delta employees and left one injured.
In a statement, IAM expressed its commitment to the safety and welfare of its members and the surrounding community, offering support to those affected by this tragic incident. The union urged Delta and relevant authorities to promptly initiate a comprehensive investigation into the circumstances of the explosion.
The IAM represents approximately 100,000 airline workers across North America, but Delta is notably non-unionized compared to other major U.S. carriers. The IAM is focusing on unionizing Delta’s ramp workers, tower workers, and baggage handlers, while the Teamsters union is working to organize the airline’s mechanics. Just last month, IAM representatives conducted a rally with Delta workers at the airport to advocate for unionization.
Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens expressed his condolences on social media to the families and loved ones of the deceased, as well as to those injured, and confirmed that police, fire, and airport officials were present at the scene.
Delta TechOps Chief of Operations John Laughter communicated in a memo to TechOps employees that he was “deeply saddened” to report the involvement of three team members in an accident at the Wheel & Brake Shop. He revealed that two team members lost their lives and another was critically injured. Laughter affirmed that the company is extending support to the families during this challenging time and is conducting an investigation to uncover the details of the incident.
A spokesperson for Delta stated that the airline is collaborating with local authorities and conducting a full investigation to establish what transpired.