American Airlines Flight Catches Fire After Emergency Landing in Denver, 12 Injured
An American Airlines flight was engulfed in flames after making an emergency landing at Denver International Airport on Thursday, leaving 12 passengers with minor injuries.
The plane, Flight 1006, had been en route from Colorado Springs to Dallas Fort Worth before diverting to Denver due to reported engine vibrations.
The Boeing 737-800 landed safely around 5:15 p.m., but as it was taxiing to the gate, one of its engines caught fire. In a swift response, emergency slides were deployed, allowing all 172 passengers and six crew members to evacuate the aircraft promptly.
According to Denver International Airport, the 12 individuals who were injured were all taken to local hospitals, though their injuries were described as minor.
The dramatic scene unfolded as passengers were seen standing on the wing, surrounded by thick smoke. Images and videos shared online captured the tense moment, with emergency responders and airport personnel moving quickly to contain the situation.
American Airlines confirmed the engine-related issue, although it did not clarify exactly when the fire broke out. “We are grateful to our crew, the DEN team, and first responders for their rapid and decisive actions,” the airline said in a statement.
Firefighters managed to extinguish the flames by the evening, and an investigation into the incident is now underway by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). Despite the alarming nature of the event, all passengers and crew made it to safety.
This latest scare adds to growing concerns over recent aviation mishaps, but air travel remains one of the safest modes of transportation worldwide. The FAA’s investigation will likely provide further insights into the cause of the engine failure.
