An American Airlines flight faced a serious incident on Thursday evening when an engine caught fire following its landing at Denver International Airport, officials reported.
On Thursday, an American Airlines Boeing 737-800 flight from Colorado Springs to Dallas Fort Worth International Airport was diverted to Denver due to reported engine vibrations. The aircraft, carrying 172 passengers and six crew members, landed safely around 5:15 p.m. local time, according to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).
While the plane was taxiing to the gate, one of the engines unexpectedly caught fire, prompting an urgent evacuation. Passengers exited the aircraft using emergency slides, while others were seen standing on the plane’s wing, a scene captured on social media. The swift response by the crew and airport personnel prioritized the safety of all onboard, ensuring that the evacuation proceeded efficiently.
The Denver Fire Department confirmed that twelve individuals sustained minor injuries and were transported to hospitals for treatment. Video footage circulated online showing the aircraft engulfed in smoke while firefighters attempted to control the blaze.
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American Airlines described the incident as an “engine-related issue” but provided no further details. Meanwhile, the FAA has announced it will conduct an investigation to determine the cause of the engine malfunction and ensure similar occurrences are prevented in the future.
Despite the alarming nature of the event, American Airlines expressed gratitude towards their crew members, the Denver International Airport team, and first responders for their quick actions. Their efforts underscored the importance of emergency preparedness in aviation, contributing to the avoidance of more dire consequences.
The engine fire incident at Denver International Airport highlights the unpredictable challenges faced in aviation and the imperative of thorough emergency protocols. The pending FAA investigation will likely provide insights into the mechanical failure and guide the implementation of enhanced safety measures.
