Passengers aboard an American Airlines flight were forced to evacuate onto the wing of their aircraft at Denver International Airport after an engine fire broke out, sending thick smoke billowing into the air. Fortunately, no serious injuries were reported, though 12 people were taken to the hospital for minor injuries.
The Boeing 737-800, which had departed from Colorado Springs and was en route to Dallas Fort Worth International Airport, was diverted to Denver at around 17:15 local time (23:15 GMT) due to reported “engine vibrations,” according to the US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). After a safe landing, the plane caught fire while taxiing on the tarmac.
Video footage from the airport showed passengers huddled on the aircraft’s wing, some clutching their carry-on luggage, while ground crews rushed to assist. The FAA confirmed that the evacuation was carried out using inflatable slides. American Airlines stated that all 172 passengers and six crew members were safely evacuated.
Airport officials swiftly responded to the emergency, with spokesman Michael Konopasek confirming that the fire was extinguished and did not cause delays for other flights. Social media videos from inside the terminal captured the dramatic scene, showing thick black smoke engulfing the plane as ground personnel worked to rescue passengers using ladders.
The incident adds to growing concerns over aviation safety in North America following a series of high-profile crashes and mechanical failures. Just weeks earlier, a tragic mid-air collision in Washington DC claimed 67 lives when an American Airlines regional jet collided with a US Army Black Hawk helicopter. The fatal crash raised concerns about air traffic controller shortages and heavy workloads.
Additionally, recent cost-cutting measures by the Trump administration have further fueled concerns. Hundreds of FAA probationary employees, including maintenance mechanics and technical assistants, were laid off as part of government efficiency efforts spearheaded by billionaire Elon Musk under the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE).
As investigations into the Denver fire begin, aviation experts stress the importance of maintaining rigorous safety standards amid growing industry challenges. The FAA has committed to a thorough probe to determine the cause of the engine failure and ensure passenger safety remains a top priority.
