DENVER (COLIRADO): Panic struck at Denver International Airport when a fire broke out in the landing gear of a Boeing 737 just moments before takeoff, forcing a dramatic emergency evacuation.
A video showing passengers escaping via inflatable slides as smoke billows from the aircraft has since gone viral online.
The aircraft, operated by American Airlines, was preparing for departure when the flight crew detected smoke coming from beneath the plane. According to preliminary reports, the fire originated from a suspected tire or landing gear malfunction.
Emergency responders acted swiftly. All 173 passengers and crew members were safely evacuated without injury. The Denver Fire Department extinguished the flames before the fire could spread or cause further damage.
In a statement, American Airlines confirmed that the incident was due to a mechanical issue with the landing gear system. “We are grateful for the quick action of our crew and local emergency teams,” the airline said. “The safety of our passengers is our highest priority.”
Several passengers described the evacuation as terrifying but praised the professionalism of the cabin crew. “There was a lot of smoke and shouting, but the flight attendants were calm and direct,” said one traveler. “I’m just thankful everyone made it out safely.”
Aviation experts say the incident highlights the importance of regular maintenance checks and reinforces the need for updated safety protocols. With increasing numbers of flights operating daily, the pressure on airlines to maintain equipment integrity remains high. The FAA is expected to release a full report in the coming weeks.
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