American Airlines Plane Catches Fire at Denver Airport, Forcing Emergency Evacuation
A terrifying scene unfolded at Denver International Airport on Thursday when an American Airlines Boeing 737-800 caught fire upon landing, forcing 172 passengers and six crew members to evacuate using emergency slides and wing exits. Twelve people were hospitalized with minor injuries, according to airport officials.
Emergency Landing Turns into Chaos
Flight AA 1006, traveling from Colorado Springs to Dallas-Fort Worth, was diverted to Denver after pilots reported engine vibrations. The plane had been in the air for about an hour when it landed safely around 5:15 p.m. local time. However, as it taxied toward the gate, one of its engines erupted in flames, sending thick black smoke billowing across the tarmac.
Passengers acted swiftly, scrambling down emergency slides and stepping onto the wing of the aircraft as fire crews rushed to the scene. Images and videos circulating online show the smoking aircraft with stunned passengers standing outside in shock.
Survivors Recount the Chaos
Eyewitnesses described a panicked but orderly evacuation.
“It all happened so fast—one moment, we were waiting to deplane, and the next, smoke was filling the air,” said Branden Williams, a passenger who captured footage of the incident.
Another passenger recalled, “People were helping each other get down the slides. The flight attendants did an amazing job keeping everyone calm.”
Airline and FAA Respond
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) confirmed the plane was diverted 20 minutes after takeoff due to engine issues.
In a statement, American Airlines praised its crew, Denver International Airport staff, and first responders for their quick and decisive actions. The airline also assured passengers that a replacement aircraft would complete their journey to Dallas-Fort Worth.
Investigation Underway
Authorities are now investigating the cause of the engine fire, with aviation experts analyzing the aircraft’s maintenance records and flight data. The Boeing 737-800 is widely used for commercial travel, and this incident raises fresh concerns over aircraft safety and emergency response protocols.
As investigations continue, passengers and crew are grateful that what could have been a tragedy ended with all lives spared.
