American Airlines Flight 1006 made an emergency landing in Denver before its engine caught fire, forcing a rapid evacuation and raising serious safety concerns.

A routine flight turned into a harrowing experience on Thursday when an American Airlines Boeing 737-800 was forced to make an emergency landing in Denver after the crew reported engine vibrations. Shortly after landing, one of the jet’s engines caught fire, prompting an urgent evacuation of all passengers and crew members.

Emergency Landing and Fire Incident

American Airlines Flight 1006 departed from Colorado Springs, bound for Dallas, when the crew detected unusual engine vibrations mid-flight. In response, the pilots diverted to Denver International Airport, where the aircraft safely landed at approximately 5:15 p.m. local time (2315 GMT). However, while taxiing to the gate, one of the plane’s engines ignited, sending plumes of smoke into the air.

Authorities swiftly responded, ensuring all 172 passengers and six crew members evacuated the aircraft. Although American Airlines confirmed everyone had exited safely, Denver International Airport later reported that 12 individuals sustained minor injuries and were transported to nearby hospitals for medical evaluation.

Dramatic Scenes Captured on Video

Social media was soon flooded with videos taken by passengers and bystanders, showing the chaotic moments after the landing. Footage revealed thick smoke billowing from the engine as passengers climbed onto the aircraft’s wings. Some were seen standing there, waiting for emergency responders to assist them.

The aircraft in question, a 13-year-old Boeing 737-800, was powered by two CFM56 engines, manufactured by CFM International, a joint venture between General Electric and Safran.

Investigation Underway

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) have launched an investigation to determine the cause of the fire. While the FAA confirmed the engine issues led to the diversion, the precise reason for the fire remains unclear.

A spokesperson for Denver International Airport stated that the fire was quickly extinguished and flight operations at the airport were not significantly disrupted. Neither Boeing nor GE commented on the incident.

Aviation Safety Concerns Continue

This latest incident adds to a growing list of aviation mishaps in the U.S. In January, a mid-air collision between an American Airlines regional jet and an Army helicopter near Reagan Washington National Airport resulted in the deaths of 67 people. More recently, a Delta Air Lines regional jet flipped upon landing at Toronto Pearson Airport during a snowstorm, leaving 18 passengers injured.

Airline executives have acknowledged that recent accidents, combined with extreme weather events and economic uncertainty, are affecting traveler confidence. American Airlines CEO Robert Isom and Delta CEO Ed Bastian both pointed to these challenges as contributing factors to fluctuating travel demand in 2024.

As the FAA and NTSB delve deeper into Thursday’s incident, passengers and aviation analysts alike will be watching closely for any new developments that could shed light on the safety of aging aircraft and engine reliability.

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