In a dramatic incident at Denver International Airport on the evening of March 23, passengers on American Airlines Flight 1006 were forced to evacuate the aircraft after one of its engines caught fire, sending thick black smoke into the air.


The Boeing 737-800, which was en route from Colorado Springs to Dallas-Fort Worth, had 172 passengers and six crew members on board. Around 5:15 p.m. local time, the flight crew reported experiencing “engine vibrations,” prompting a diversion to Denver, as stated by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).


As the plane was taxiing to the gate after landing, an engine ignited. According to FAA officials, the agency has launched an investigation into the incident.


Just prior to landing, the pilot notified air traffic controllers about the engine issues, clarifying that there was no emergency. “American 1006, just to verify, not an emergency still, correct?” the controller queried. The pilot assured them, “Nah, we just have a high engine vibration so we are cruising slower than normal.” 


However, the situation rapidly escalated after landing when alarm was raised over the radio— “Mayday, Mayday, Mayday! Mayday! … engine fire!”— prompting urgent actions.


The aircraft reached gate C38, where airport personnel and firefighters quickly extinguished the flames. Passengers were evacuated safely, with many seen standing on the wing as smoke filled the vicinity.


The Denver Fire Department confirmed that twelve passengers were transported to the hospital with minor injuries. In a statement, American Airlines expressed gratitude towards their crew, the airport team, and first responders for their swift actions, emphasizing the safety of everyone on board and on the ground as the top priority.


This incident serves as a stark reminder of the critical importance of safety protocols in aviation, ensuring that emergencies are handled efficiently and effectively.