
Thousands of travelers’ vacations were impacted after the spread of a dangerous contagion on a Delta Airlines flight from Detroit to New Amsterdam on July 4, 2024. Even though just one flight was grounded, the airline limited global operations to protect other guests.
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At least 12 passengers on Delta Airlines Flight 136 from Detroit to Amsterdam got sick after eating chicken contaminated with mold. Pilots made an emergency landing in New York City, where first responders were waiting at the gate.

Credit: Delta
After the contamination was discovered, pilots notified passengers over the intercom and instructed them not to eat the chicken.
In the days since, Delta Airlines has limited food service on 75 of its flights, offering only a pasta dish to economy passengers. They vowed to work with food suppliers to “immediately isolate the product” and launch a thorough investigation.
International flight operations were changed for at least two days, impacting thousands of travelers–some of whom undoubtedly were headed to Walt Disney World Resort.
CBS Evening News shared this video of air traffic control communicating with Delta 136 after the moldy chicken was discovered:
@cbseveningnews A #Delta flight from #Detroit to Amsterdam was diverted to #JFK after passengers were served spoiled food on board, sickening several on board. #travel #aviation #holidayweekend #newyork
“Can you confirm that none of the pilots ate any of the food?” the air traffic controller asked.
CBS later shared photos of the moldy chicken from passengers. Two pictures clearly showed fuzzy, gray spores growing on top of plastic dishes of chicken, gravy, green beans, and more.
“This is not the service Delta is known for and we sincerely apologize to our customers for the inconvenience and delay in their travels,” Delta Corporate Communications Spokesperson Lisa Hanna said.
Related: American Airlines Flight Hits “Unexpected Turbulence” Sending 8 to Hospital
Passengers received hotel and food vouchers after the emergency landing in New York City, which occurred at around 4:00 a.m. on July 4. It’s unclear if anyone on board requested or was granted additional compensation.

Credit: Delta Airlines
Related: 3,000 United Airlines Employees Contracted COVID, Reduces Flight Schedule
277 people were on board Delta Airlines Flight 136 on July 4. Despite the emergency landing, none required additional medical attention.
Would you fly Delta again after this experience? Share your take on the incident with us in the comments.