A Delta Air Lines flight departing from Georgia was temporarily delayed after an alligator made its way onto an airport taxiway, prompting a brief halt in operations as crews worked to remove the animal, as reported by The New York Post.

The incident occurred on the evening of March 20 at Savannah-Hilton Head International Airport, according to reports and air traffic control audio obtained by WDSU.

The recording captured the moment a Delta pilot alerted the control tower after spotting the reptile on the taxiway.

“There’s a six-foot gator sitting on his two legs,” the pilot said over the radio.

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The unusual report prompted a quick response from air traffic control. “Six foot?” the tower controller asked, seeking confirmation of the size of the animal.

“Yeah. He’s about six foot,” the pilot replied.

Airport personnel were dispatched to the scene and were able to safely remove the alligator from the taxiway. According to reports, the animal was then relocated off airport property.

No injuries were reported as a result of the incident, authorities said.

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Officials have not provided details on how the alligator entered the secured area of the airport or how long it had been on the taxiway before being spotted by the flight crew.

The temporary delay impacted the Delta flight as a precaution while crews ensured the runway area was clear. Flight operations resumed shortly after the animal was removed and the area was deemed safe.

Savannah-Hilton Head International Airport, located in a region where alligators are commonly found, has not indicated whether additional measures will be implemented following the incident.

Wildlife encounters, while uncommon on active taxiways, are not unheard of in certain parts of the southeastern United States.

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The air traffic control audio quickly gained attention after being released, highlighting the unexpected nature of the delay.

The exchange between the pilot and the tower provided a clear account of how the situation unfolded in real time, with both parties confirming the presence and size of the alligator before action was taken.

Airport crews acted to secure the area and remove the animal without incident, allowing normal operations to continue later that evening.

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