A Boeing 737-800 operated by American Airlines was evacuated after one of its engines caught fire following an emergency landing at Denver International Airport on Friday, March 14, 2025.
The aircraft, identified as Flight 1006, had taken off from Colorado Springs and was en route to Dallas Fort Worth International Airport when the crew detected unusual engine vibrations mid-flight, prompting a diversion to Denver, according to Sky News.
The plane touched down safely at approximately 5:15 p.m. local time (11:15 p.m. UK time).
However, as it taxied toward the gate, one of its engines ignited, escalating the situation and necessitating an urgent evacuation.
Footage shared online showed passengers quickly exiting via emergency slides, with some standing on the wing as thick smoke poured from the burning engine.
Other images captured flames engulfing a portion of the aircraft.
Airport officials confirmed that all 172 passengers and six crew members managed to evacuate safely.
However, 12 individuals suffered minor injuries and were taken to nearby hospitals for medical evaluation.
American Airlines expressed gratitude for the swift response of its crew, airport personnel, and emergency responders, emphasizing that passenger and crew safety remained the top priority.
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has launched an investigation into the incident, particularly focusing on the reported in-flight engine vibrations and the subsequent fire after landing.
According to FlightRadar24, the aircraft involved is 13 years old and equipped with two CFM56 engines, manufactured by CFM International—a partnership between GE and Safran.
Denver International Airport later confirmed that the fire had been extinguished and normal flight operations had resumed.
American Airlines acknowledged that while the aircraft landed safely, it encountered an “engine-related issue” shortly thereafter.
This incident adds to growing concerns over aviation safety in the United States. In January, a collision between an American Airlines regional jet and a military helicopter near Washington, D.C., resulted in 67 fatalities.
More recently, a Delta Air Lines regional jet overturned upon landing in Toronto due to strong winds, injuring 18 passengers.
As safety issues mount, American Airlines CEO Robert Isom and Delta CEO Ed Bastian have pointed to recent air incidents, weather-related disruptions, and economic challenges as contributing factors to a decline in U.S. travel demand.