An American Airlines plane caught fire on the tarmac after landing at Denver International Airport with engine issues on Thursday evening, resulting in the evacuation of scores of passengers from the burning aircraft. According to DIA spokesperson Michael Konopasek, twelve individuals were taken to area hospitals with minor injuries following the incident involving the Boeing 737-800.
Flight 1006, which had departed from Colorado Springs and was en route to Dallas Fort Worth International Airport, was diverted to Denver after the crew reported engine vibrations, as per a statement from the Federal Aviation Administration. Tracking data from Flight Aware indicated that the 737 departed from Colorado Springs at 4:52 p.m., diverted at 5:14 p.m., and landed in Denver at 5:55 p.m.
Despite landing safely, the aircraft experienced an engine-related issue while taxiing at gate C38, as reported by American Airlines spokesperson Brian Metham. The fire broke out around 6 p.m., prompting the swift evacuation of passengers using slides. Fortunately, all 172 passengers and six crew members on board were safely evacuated.
Videos posted on social media by passengers showed smoke billowing from the plane and individuals evacuating onto the wings. The FAA confirmed that the passengers used slides to exit the aircraft. American Airlines expressed gratitude towards their crew members, the Denver team, and first responders for their prompt and decisive actions prioritizing the safety of everyone involved.
The incident will be investigated by the FAA amidst a recent spate of aviation disasters and close calls, raising concerns about air travel safety. Recent incidents included a plane crashing and flipping over upon landing in Toronto and a Japan Airlines aircraft clipping a parked Delta plane while taxiing at the Seattle airport.
In conclusion, while air travel remains a very safe mode of transportation, incidents like the one at Denver International Airport serve as a reminder of the importance of stringent safety protocols in the aviation industry. The Associated Press contributed to this report.
Published on: March 13, 2025 at 7:20 PM MDT
