American Airlines Jet Engine Catches Fire After Landing in Denver
Emergency Evacuation as American Airlines Jet Engine Bursts into Flames
American Airlines Boeing 737-800 engine catches fire at Denver Airport, prompting emergency evacuation.
All 172 passengers and six crew members safely evacuated | 12 individuals hospitalized with minor injuries
An American Airlines jet engine caught fire moments after landing at Denver International Airport, forcing passengers to evacuate via emergency slides, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) confirmed.
Flight Diverted After Engine Vibrations
American Airlines Flight 1006, a Boeing 737-800, was en route from Colorado Springs to Dallas when the crew detected engine vibrations and diverted to Denver International Airport (DEN). The aircraft safely landed at approximately 5:15 PM (2315 GMT), but soon after, flames erupted from one of its CFM56 engines, manufactured by CFM International, a GE-Safran joint venture.
Passengers Escape as Smoke Fills the Air
Eyewitness videos circulating on social media captured passengers standing on the aircraft’s wing as thick smoke billowed from the engine. Airport emergency teams quickly responded, ensuring a swift evacuation of all 172 passengers and six crew members. However, 12 people sustained minor injuries and were transported to local hospitals for medical evaluation, per Denver International Airport officials.
Witnesses Recall the Terrifying Moments
“We were near Gate B44, just landed from Pittsburgh when we suddenly saw a bright flash of fire, followed by a huge plume of smoke,” recalled witness Aaron Clark. “The fire was brief and got extinguished quickly, but the smoke lingered, and that’s when passengers began sliding out of the plane.”
FAA Investigating the Incident
The FAA has launched an official investigation into the engine malfunction. Meanwhile, American Airlines stated that the plane landed safely and was taxiing to the gate when it experienced an engine-related issue.
Despite the scare, flight operations at Denver International Airport remained unaffected, and emergency personnel promptly contained the fire.
Aviation Safety Concerns on the Rise
This incident comes amid growing concerns over aviation safety following a series of high-profile airline mishaps. Recent incidents include:
January 29: A mid-air collision between an American Airlines regional jet and an Army helicopter, claiming 67 lives.
Last month: A Delta Air Lines regional jet flipped upside down while landing at Toronto Pearson Airport in severe winter conditions, injuring 18 passengers.
With increasing aviation safety concerns, American Airlines CEO Robert Isom and Delta CEO Ed Bastian have pointed to weather challenges and recent airline accidents as factors affecting travel demand.
What’s Next?
The FAA, Boeing, and GE have yet to release further statements. As authorities investigate the cause of the engine fire, travelers are left wondering: Are aviation safety protocols sufficient to prevent such incidents?
What do you think about the recent rise in airline safety concerns? Share your thoughts below!
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