DL1893 - Wing Flap Detachment During Flight

Delta Air Lines Flight 1893, operating a Boeing 737-800 (registration N3740C) from Orlando International Airport (MCO) to Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (AUS), experienced a significant structural failure on August 20, 2025. The aircraft, a Boeing 737-800 powered by CFM56 engines, was in cruise flight at approximately 12,000 feet altitude when a section of the left wing flap partially detached from the wing structure. The detached flap section remained connected but became dislodged and was observed dangling from the wing during flight. Passengers reported feeling turbulence and witnessed the flap section moving in the airstream, which caused considerable alarm among those seated near the affected wing. The flight crew received no cockpit indications of the flap failure but were alerted by passenger reports and cabin crew observations. After assessing the situation and consulting with maintenance control and company operations, the crew determined it was safe to continue to the planned destination rather than attempt an immediate diversion. The aircraft maintained normal flight characteristics and controllability throughout the remainder of the flight. The Boeing 737-800 landed safely at Austin-Bergstrom International Airport on Runway 18R without incident. All 62 passengers and 6 crew members deplaned normally with no injuries reported. The aircraft was immediately removed from service for maintenance inspection and evaluation. The FAA has launched an investigation into the cause of the wing flap structural failure.