BOSTON (CBS) – There were some heart-pounding moments for passengers on board Delta Flight 2101 from Boston to Atlanta. Around 5:00 p.m. as the plane taxied toward takeoff from Logan Airport, the pilot declared an emergency because of “hot brakes.”

Passenger Sean Besk says the pilot explained the situation. “One of the brake rotors overheated, popped a tire, and hydraulic fuel got on it,” he said. He credits fire crews with quick work hosing down the rear of the plane with foam.

The commotion caught the attention of other travelers. “All the doors were open, the aircraft was on the runway surrounded by fire trucks,” said Jonathan Birge.

Until passengers were taken to waiting buses and finally made their way to the terminal, Sean Besk admits a little unease sitting on the tarmac. “It’s a little scary because it’s full of jet fuel, that will get your attention.”

Most were able to rebook on a later flight to Atlanta but some, like Besk, preferred waiting until the next day after this experience.

“It’s a little hairy, but everybody got off safely, that’s the main thing,” he said.