More than 150 passengers on an American Airlines flight from Denver International Airport were evacuated onto the tarmac after a “possible landing gear incident” led to a fire and left one person injured. The Boeing 737 MAX 8 was grounded due to a “maintenance issue” concerning a tire before take-off, prompting an immediate response from emergency services and the Denver Fire Department.
The incident, occurring on Saturday, adds to a series of alarming aviation emergencies at Denver International, which ranks as the world’s sixth busiest airport. Passengers were taken aback when they heard a loud bang and noticed flames as the aircraft prepared to depart for Miami. They were subsequently evacuated via emergency slides after the plane experienced a brake fire caused by blown tires and rapid deceleration during braking.
American Airlines confirmed that all passengers and crew safely exited the aircraft, which was then grounded for inspection. While five individuals were assessed on the scene, another was taken to the hospital with minor injuries. The incident led to significant flight delays, with over 240 flights affected.
Describing the experience, 17-year-old Shay Armistead described it as “kind of traumatising.” Fellow passenger Margaret Gustafson recounted the panic that swept through the cabin when flames were spotted, with some passengers screaming in fear. The evacuation itself took around 10 to 15 minutes.
In the wake of this incident, passengers’ plans were disrupted, but a replacement flight to Miami was arranged for later in the day. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is currently investigating the matter. This incident follows a series of other unsettling events at the airport, raising concerns about aviation safety in the region.