Passengers on an American Airlines flight were forced to evacuate onto the tarmac at Denver International Airport after a fire broke out on the plane, sending thick smoke into the air.
Some passengers were seen huddled on the wing of the Boeing 737-800, with flames burning near the aircraft’s underside.
The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) confirmed that passengers used inflatable slides to reach the ground safely. While there were no serious injuries, 12 people were taken to the hospital with minor injuries.
The flight had taken off from Colorado Springs and was en route to Dallas Fort Worth International Airport when the crew reported “engine vibrations.” The plane was diverted to Denver and caught fire while taxiing after landing. American Airlines stated that all 172 passengers and six crew members were safely evacuated.
Videos shared on social media showed large clouds of black smoke as passengers cautiously moved toward the edge of the wing. Ground crews rushed to assist, pushing ladders toward the aircraft. Flames were visible under the right engine, with an evacuation slide deployed at the rear door.
This incident comes amid growing concerns over aviation safety following a series of high-profile accidents in North America. In Washington, D.C., a recent mid-air collision between an American Airlines regional jet and a U.S. Army Black Hawk helicopter resulted in 67 fatalities. The crash raised concerns about air traffic controller shortages and their increasing workloads.
Meanwhile, the Trump administration has cut hundreds of FAA probationary workers, including maintenance mechanics and technical assistants, as part of government cost-saving efforts led by billionaire Elon Musk. The layoffs occurred just weeks after the deadly Washington, D.C. crash, further intensifying debates over aviation safety regulations.
