Passengers flee to the wing of American Airlines plane after a fire breaks out
An engine fire occurred on an American Airlines jet after it had to divert for an emergency landing in Denver, resulting in the evacuation of passengers via the plane’s emergency slides, according to the Federal Aviation Administration.
American Airlines Flight 1006, operated by a Boeing 737-800 en route from Colorado Springs, landed in Denver at approximately 5:15 PM local time (11:15 PM Irish time) yesterday, changing course to Dallas after the crew noted engine vibrations, as stated by the FAA.
Dramatic footage emerged on social media showing passengers standing on the wing of the aircraft, evacuating as smoke billowed from the engine.
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All 172 passengers and six crew members successfully exited the aircraft, expressing gratitude to the “crew members, (Denver) team, and first responders for their prompt and decisive actions, prioritizing the safety of everyone onboard and on the ground.”
The FAA announced that it will be conducting an investigation into this incident.
Boeing chose not to comment, directing inquiries to American Airlines and the investigators.
This engine fire adds to a series of notable aviation incidents that have raised concerns regarding aviation safety in the U.S., including the January 29 mid-air collision involving an American Airlines regional jet and an Army helicopter, which resulted in 67 fatalities.