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Pigeon Pairs Delay Delta Flight in Feathered Frenzy
A Delta flight from Minneapolis to Madison turned into a scene straight out of a Hitchcock film on Saturday when not one, but two pigeons caused a double delay.
Shortly after passengers boarded Flight 2348, a feathered stowaway was spotted fluttering around the cabin. The pilot, admitting his lack of experience with avian passengers, called in the baggage handlers who successfully escorted the pigeon off the plane to the applause of passengers. One young passenger even asked to pet the bird!
Just when everyone thought the drama was over and the plane began taxiing, another pigeon emerged, prompting a second return to the gate. According to passenger Tom Caw, who documented the incident on social media, even the air traffic controller was surprised, saying it was a first for him. The pilot quipped back that it was his second pigeon-related delay of the day.
Delta apologized for the 56-minute delay, confirming both birds were safely removed. Caw joked that the pigeons were likely hoping for in-flight snacks, unaware of the short flight time.