Passengers Evacuate on Wing After American Airlines Plane Engine Catches Fire at Denver Airport
A terrifying moment unfolded at Denver International Airport when an American Airlines plane engine caught fire, forcing passengers to evacuate onto the aircraft’s wing as thick smoke engulfed the plane.
Emergency Landing and Evacuation
American Airlines Flight 1006, en route from Colorado Springs to Dallas-Fort Worth, was diverted to Denver after reports of engine trouble. The Boeing 737-800 landed safely around 5 p.m. local time, according to FlightAware.com data.
Upon arrival at Gate C38, the plane’s engine caught fire, prompting an urgent evacuation. Six crew members and 172 passengers deplaned, some stepping onto the aircraft’s wing as emergency crews responded. Fortunately, all passengers and crew members were safely relocated to the terminal, and no injuries were reported.
Passengers Describe the Harrowing Scene
Video footage from inside the airport captured a large cloud of smoke billowing from the aircraft as dozens of passengers quickly exited and ran away from the scene. A Montana woman waiting for her connecting flight to Colorado Springs witnessed the incident firsthand.
“I was terrified for those passengers,” she told CNN. “I can’t even imagine how scared they must’ve been.”
Rapid Response and Investigation
American Airlines commended its flight crew, Denver International Airport staff, and first responders for their quick and decisive actions to ensure the safety of everyone on board. The fire was swiftly extinguished, and an investigation into the cause of the engine failure is now underway.
This is a developing story and will be updated as more information becomes available.
