Delta Air Lines Flight 2311, operating from Los Angeles to Salt Lake City, experienced a sudden pressurization problem on September 6, 2026, forcing the Boeing 737 to make a rapid emergency descent. The aircraft was carrying 174 passengers and six crew members.
The aircraft reportedly descended approximately 27,000 feet in around 10 minutes, from about 36,000 feet to 9,000 feet, after oxygen masks deployed inside the cabin. The pilots informed air traffic control that they were making a rapid descent and requested clearance to 9,000 feet while diverting directly toward Las Vegas.
Passengers suddenly found oxygen masks hanging from the ceiling as the crew worked through the emergency. One passenger described the situation as frightening and confusing, saying cabin announcements were difficult to hear because flight attendants were also wearing oxygen masks.
The aircraft diverted to Harry Reid International Airport in Las Vegas, where it landed safely at around 6:16 p.m. Passengers were able to leave the aircraft normally, and Delta arranged another aircraft to take them onward to Salt Lake City. No injuries were reported.
Delta said the flight crew followed its training and procedures to bring the aircraft to a safe altitude following the unexpected pressurization issue. The incident highlights the importance of rapid descent procedures and emergency oxygen systems during cabin-pressure problems.