Story perspectives

Delta Flight Delayed by Six-Foot Alligator on Taxiway

4/6/2026

Summary

Story summary

A Delta Air Lines flight was delayed at Savannah–Hilton Head International Airport after a six-foot alligator appeared on the taxiway.
Air traffic control audio captured the pilot expressing surprise, saying, “There’s a six-foot gator sitting on his two legs.”
Airport crew safely removed and relocated the alligator, and no injuries were reported.
The incident prompted questions about how the alligator entered the airport, and flight operations resumed after removal.

1 of 1

Story summary

A Delta Air Lines flight was delayed at Savannah–Hilton Head International Airport after a six-foot alligator appeared on the taxiway.
Air traffic control audio captured the pilot expressing surprise, saying, “There’s a six-foot gator sitting on his two legs.”
Airport crew safely removed and relocated the alligator, and no injuries were reported.
The incident prompted questions about how the alligator entered the airport, and flight operations resumed after removal.