Passengers Shaken As Plane Catches Fire On Landing

A Boeing 737-800 aircraft carrying 178 people caught fire after an engine malfunction forced an emergency diversion to Denver International Airport on Thursday evening.

The American Airlines Flight 1006, traveling from Colorado Springs to Dallas Fort Worth, reported severe engine vibrations mid-flight, prompting pilots to reroute to Denver. The aircraft landed safely at approximately 5:15 PM (11:15 PM UK time), but moments later, flames erupted from one of the engines as it taxied to the gate.

Terrifying visuals shared online showed flames and smoke billowing from the jet’s right engine, while some passengers stood on the aircraft’s wing, awaiting evacuation.

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) confirmed that all 172 passengers and six crew members successfully exited the aircraft. However, 12 people were taken to the hospital with minor injuries.

American Airlines, in a statement, acknowledged an “engine-related issue” and praised the swift response of crew members, airport staff, and emergency responders.

FAA Launches Investigation
The FAA has launched an investigation into the engine fire, which occurred after the aircraft had landed and was taxiing toward the terminal. The plane, 13 years old, is equipped with CFM56 engines, manufactured by CFM International, a joint venture between GE and Safran.

A spokesperson for Denver International Airport confirmed that the fire was quickly extinguished, and flight operations resumed without major disruptions.

Growing Concerns Over U.S. Aviation Safety

This incident adds to a growing list of high-profile aviation emergencies in recent months, raising concerns about U.S. air safety standards.

On January 29, an American Airlines regional jet collided mid-air with a military helicopter near Washington, D.C., killing 67 people.

In February, a Delta Air Lines regional jet flipped upside down upon landing at Toronto Pearson Airport in strong winds, injuring 18 passengers.

The recent wave of air travel incidents has contributed to falling passenger confidence, according to American Airlines CEO Robert Isom and Delta Air Lines CEO Ed Bastian. Both executives pointed to recent crashes, extreme weather, and economic uncertainty as factors affecting U.S. travel demand.
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