An American Airlines aircraft caught fire while taxiing to the gate at the Denver International Airport on March 13, 2025, turning what should have been a normal landing into a terrifying experience for the crew and the occupants. Fire engulfed the plane after it was diverted off its initial course due to engine malfunction, injuring 12 people with minor injuries during the frantic evacuation. Firefighting squads were quick to respond to put the fire out, saving the plane from a major disaster.
It began with American Airlines Flight 1006, a 737-800 flight from Colorado Springs to Dallas Fort Worth. In Midflight, the pilots reported engine vibration, which is a serious issue that prompted them to make an emergency diversion to the major airport in Denver, which has more advanced emergency facilities. It landed normally at around 5:15 p.m. local time and was taxiing to Gate C38 when the accident occurred. One of its engines suddenly burst into flames, filling the air with smoke and fire. Videos on social media showed the terrifying moment, with people racing to slide down the emergency slides while others clung to the plane’s wing, desperate to flee.
Twelve were injured, the majority with bumps and bruises, during the speedy evacuation. They were evacuated to nearby hospitals for checks. Airport staff and the Denver Fire Department quickly responded, extinguishing the fire and ensuring everyone’s safety. It was due to the quick response that the outcome was not more severe. American Airlines released an announcement expressing praise for the professionalism exhibited by the flight crew and the response by airport staff and first responders.
“Safety is always our first priority,”
The airline said, adding it fully cooperates with the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) investigation. Initial findings suggest engine vibrations were the probable cause of the fire, even if the cause has yet to be established after a thorough investigation. The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) will also be invited to join the investigation, subject to the FAA findings.
This dramatic event adds to the overall aviation safety discourse, especially for Boeing’s aircraft, which have faced added scrutiny after some serious events in the recent past. But the Boeing 737-800 aircraft have a great safety record, so such events are rare and unexpected.
