[Watch] Why Did American Airlines Flight Catch Fire Forcing Evacuation Of Passengers

New York: An American Airlines flight faced a dramatic incident at Denver International Airport (DEN) on Saturday. Its left main landing gear caught fire. This prompted an emergency evacuation. The Miami-bound flight AA3023 had to return to the runway shortly after takeoff after the fire was spotted. Passengers and crew members were evacuated safely via emergency slides. Videos of the same have gone viral on social media. In such videos, smoke is seen billowing beneath the aircraft.

Authorities reported one minor injury, according to the Hindustan Times. All 173 passengers and six crew members are accounted for. The exact cause of the accident is being probed.

The incident unfolded around 2:45 pm local time when DEN first responders and the Denver Fire Department were alerted about the blaze. The flames were emanating from the American Airlines flight’s wheels. The fire also prompted a short-lived ground stop at the airport.

American Airlines hints at cause

American Airlines said the aircraft ‘experienced a maintenance issue.’ Just before taking off, it faced an issue with a tire on the landing gear.

“All customers and crew deplaned safely, and the aircraft was taken out of service to be inspected by our maintenance team,” the statement read.

A similar incident occurred in March in Denver, involving an American Airlines Boeing 737 engine fire.

“People still taking their sh*t in an aircraft emergency has gotta be the biggest selfish thing ever Video if American Airlines emergency at Denver today,” one person wrote on X.

“This is becoming routine for airline travel. This is American Airlines in Denver. Rear wheels blew,” another one added.