American Airlines Boeing 737 Engine Ignites at Denver Airport, Forcing 172 Passengers to Evacuate Onto Wing

By
Noreen Shazreen
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On Thursday (13 March 2025), passengers were forced to evacuate an American Airlines Boeing 737-800 after one of its engines caught fire at Denver International Airport, reported BBC.

Plane Diverted to Denver from Its Original Route to Dallas

The incident unfolded when Flight 1006, carrying 172 passengers and six crew members, was diverted to Denver from its original route between Colorado Springs and Dallas-Fort Worth after the crew reported “engine vibrations”.

After landing safely around 5:15 pm local time, the aircraft was taxiing to gate C38 when its engine suddenly ignited, sending thick black smoke billowing into the air.

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Videos circulating on social media captured the chaotic scene as dozens of passengers evacuated onto the wing of the aircraft, some still clutching their belongings, while flames flickered near the lower section of the plane.

Passengers described smelling “a weird burning plastic smell” after landing, followed by screaming as people realised there was a fire.

The emergency evacuation proceeded with passengers using both the wing and inflatable slides to reach safety.

Emergency Response

Ground crews quickly contained the fire, with footage showing bright orange flames and black smoke transitioning to a misty white haze as firefighters suppressed the blaze.

Denver International Airport officials confirmed that 12 passengers were transported to hospitals with minor injuries.

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has launched an investigation into the incident, which is the latest in a series of high-profile aviation incidents in North America that have raised concerns about aviation safety.

American Airlines expressed gratitude to “crew members, DEN team and first responders for their quick and decisive action with the safety of everyone on board and on the ground as the priority”.

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The airline dispatched a replacement aircraft and crew to Denver to help the stranded passengers continue their journey to Dallas.

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Noreen Shazreen
Email: [email protected]