Problem Plane Undergoes Inspection In ATL

So, what's up with the flaps on a couple of Delta's Bombardier CRJ-200 regional jets? That's what both Delta and its regional operator, Atlantic Southeast Airlines, would like to know.

Over the weekend, there were three emergency landings at Wichita's Mid-Continent Airport, involving two different CRJ-200s. Those planes (file photo of type, above) touched down safely Saturday, each after its pilots declared an emergency.

Sunday afternoon, one of those same aircraft once again experienced trouble with the flaps, forcing the aircraft to once again land without the slow-flight aids.

Todd Bailey, who speaks for Delta and ASA, told KAKE-TV it's the first time he can remember three such incidents at the same airport in a span of just two days, adding it was a coincidence all the incidents occurred at Mid-Continent.

Fortunately, the airport -- which has runways of 6,000, 7,000 and over 10,000 feet in length -- is well-capable of handling such incidents, Bailey said.

No-flap landings require faster approach speeds, which usually lead to firmer touchdowns and significantly longer landing rolls.

The CRJ-200 involved in two of those emergency landings was repaired and returned to Atlanta, where all three incident flights originated. That plane was later grounded, however, until someone can come up with some answers. No word on whether the second aircraft that experienced flap difficulities is still flying.

FMI: www.delta.com