Yesterday evening, March 13, 2025, an American Airlines fire incident occurred at Denver International Airport (DIA), prompting the evacuation of passengers from Flight 1006. The aircraft, a Boeing 737-800, was en route from Colorado Springs to Dallas-Fort Worth when it was diverted to Denver due to reported engine vibrations. After landing, one of the engines caught fire while the plane was taxiing to the gate, leading to a swift response from the crew and emergency services.
Key Takeaways:
- An American Airlines fire incident took place at Denver International Airport on Thursday evening, March 13, 2025.
- Flight 1006, a Boeing 737-800, diverted to Denver from its original route between Colorado Springs and Dallas-Fort Worth due to engine vibrations.
- After landing, one of the plane’s engines caught fire at gate C38.
- All 172 passengers and six crew members were safely evacuated, with some using emergency slides and others standing on the wing.
- Twelve passengers were transported to the hospital with minor injuries.
- The fire was quickly extinguished by ground crews, and the FAA is currently investigating the incident.
American Airlines Flight 1006 Diverted to Denver
American Airlines Flight 1006, carrying 172 passengers and six crew members, experienced engine trouble on its way from Colorado Springs Airport to Dallas Fort Worth International Airport. The crew reported “engine vibrations” and made the decision to divert the Boeing 737-800 to Denver International Airport around 5:15 p.m. local time [Source: CNN].
Engine Fire After Landing
According to a statement from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), after the plane landed safely and was taxiing towards the gate, an engine caught fire. This incident occurred at gate C38 at DIA [Source: KDVR]. The Denver International Airport spokesperson confirmed the fire was extinguished, and all passengers were successfully evacuated [Source: CNN].
Dramatic Evacuation: Passengers on the Wing
Eyewitness accounts and images from the scene depicted a dramatic evacuation process. Dozens of passengers were seen standing on the wing of the aircraft as thick black smoke billowed into the air. Video footage also showed some passengers using the emergency evacuation slides to exit the plane [Source: KKTV].
“Mayday! Engine Fire!”
Audio from air traffic control revealed that the pilot had initially reported engine issues but stated it was not an emergency. However, the situation quickly escalated after landing, with someone on the radio yelling “Mayday, Mayday, Mayday! Mayday! … engine fire!” [Source: CNN].
Injuries and Airline Response
While the evacuation was largely successful, the Denver Fire Department reported that twelve passengers were taken to the hospital with minor injuries [Source: CNN]. American Airlines issued a statement expressing gratitude to their crew members, the Denver airport team, and first responders for their swift and decisive action, prioritizing the safety of everyone involved [Source: KKTV].
Witness Testimony
Kristal Leonard, a passenger waiting for a connecting flight, witnessed the scene and described being “terrified” for the passengers on the affected plane as she saw flames and smoke [Source: CNN]. Another video captured by an airport passenger showed ground crews extinguishing the fire relatively quickly.
Investigation Underway
The FAA has announced that it is investigating the American Airlines fire incident to determine the cause [Source: CNN]. American Airlines is also taking steps to assist the affected passengers, including sending a replacement aircraft and crew to Denver to help them continue their journey to Dallas [Source: CNN].
This incident serves as a reminder of the potential risks involved in air travel and highlights the importance of well-trained crews and effective emergency response procedures. Fortunately, in this case, the quick actions of all involved ensured the safety of the passengers and crew.
