On March 13, 2025, American Airlines Flight 1006, a Boeing 737-800, encountered a critical incident at Denver International Airport. The aircraft, originating from Colorado Springs and destined for Dallas Fort Worth International Airport, was diverted to Denver after the crew reported engine vibrations shortly after departure.

Incident Details:

  • Emergency Landing: The flight crew detected engine vibrations approximately at 5:15 PM local time and decided to divert to Denver International Airport as a precautionary measure.
  • Fire Outbreak: After landing, while taxiing to the gate, the aircraft’s right engine caught fire, leading to the rapid spread of thick black smoke.
  • Evacuation Procedure: All 172 passengers and six crew members were promptly evacuated. Passengers were observed standing on the aircraft’s wing and utilizing emergency slides to exit safely.

Casualties and Response:

  • Injuries: While there were no severe injuries reported, 12 individuals were transported to local hospitals with minor injuries.
  • Emergency Services: Airport emergency responders swiftly extinguished the fire, ensuring no further damage to the aircraft or airport facilities.

Investigation:

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has initiated an investigation to determine the cause of the engine fire. Preliminary reports indicate that the crew had reported engine vibrations prior to the incident, but the exact cause remains under scrutiny.

Passenger Accounts:

Passengers aboard the flight recounted the sudden onset of smoke and the urgency of the evacuation. Many praised the crew’s professionalism and the efficiency of the emergency response teams.

This incident underscores the critical importance of stringent safety protocols and the need for continuous maintenance checks to ensure passenger safety in aviation operations.