Cabin pressure controls. Photo: Shutterstock Delta Air Lines Boeing 757 returned safely to John F. Kennedy International Airport in New York on Thursday, September 10, after the crew reported a possible pressurization issue during the flight.
Delta Flight 791 was operating from JFK to Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport when the crew reported the concern, according to the Federal Aviation Administration.
The aircraft returned to JFK and landed safely at around 10:25 a.m. local time. The FAA did not report any injuries or other consequences from the incident.
The FAA said it will investigate the incident. The agency has extensive requirements for aircraft cabin pressurization and oxygen supplies, and it investigates reported pressurization incidents.
For additional information about the flight, passengers and any subsequent arrangements, the FAA directed travelers to contact Delta Air Lines.
The incident is another example of a commercial aircraft returning to its departure airport after a crew reports a potential issue, whether technical or otherwise. In such cases, flight crews can return to the airport when they determine it is the safest course of action while the aircraft is evaluated.
A pressurization issue means there may be a problem with the system that keeps the aircraft cabin at a safe, breathable pressure while the plane is flying at high altitude.
The system normally maintains cabin pressure equivalent to an altitude of around 8,000 feet (2,438 meters), even when the aircraft is cruising much higher.
If cabin pressure drops unexpectedly, passengers and crew can be exposed to reduced oxygen levels, so pilots may use oxygen masks and begin a descent if necessary.