An American Airlines flight aborted take-off at Denver International Airport on Saturday after a fire broke out in its landing gear, filling the runway with smoke and prompting an emergency evacuation. All 173 passengers on board were safely evacuated, though one person sustained a minor injury.
The flight, AA-3023, was headed to Miami and operated using a Boeing 737 MAX 8. According to the airline, the aircraft suffered a maintenance issue related to the landing gear tire.
Dramatic visuals from the scene showed flames near the landing gear as passengers slid down emergency chutes. Thick smoke enveloped the area as rescue teams rushed to respond.
The Federal Aviation Administration said the aircraft reported a possible landing gear incident around 2:45 pm local time. Passengers were quickly evacuated and taken to the terminal by bus. The FAA confirmed it will investigate the incident.
Denver Airport said the fire occurred while the plane was on the runway. Emergency crews and fire services were called in immediately. "Five people were evaluated on scene and not transported. One person was evaluated at a gate and was transported," the airport said in a statement.
By 5:10 pm, the Denver Fire Department declared the fire extinguished.
American Airlines confirmed that the plane was taken out of service for inspection by maintenance crews.
Meanwhile, one passenger has come under criticism after a video showed him exiting the plane with his child in one hand and luggage in the other. He appeared to lose balance and fall over the child while sliding off the aircraft.
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