Dramatic Takeoff Abort at Denver Airport: What Happened to American Airlines Flight?

A potentially grave aviation incident unfolded at Denver International Airport when an American Airlines flight had to abort its takeoff due to a landing gear malfunction, resulting in fire and smoke. Fortunately, all 173 passengers were evacuated safely, although one individual sustained a minor injury. This incident has raised concerns about maintenance practices, especially as it follows a similar event involving another American Airlines flight just months prior. The FAA is now investigating the cause to ensure future safety measures are implemented.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jul 27, 2025, 10:36 IST

Emergency Averted at Denver International Airport

Denver: A significant aviation emergency was narrowly avoided at Denver International Airport when an American Airlines flight, scheduled to fly to Miami, had to abort its takeoff due to a malfunction in the landing gear, which resulted in smoke and fire on the runway.

All 173 passengers were safely evacuated during the emergency response, although one person suffered a minor injury, as confirmed by officials.

The flight, identified as AA-3023, was being operated by a Boeing 737 MAX 8. It was preparing for takeoff around 2:45 p.m. local time when it experienced what the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) later referred to as a 'potential landing gear incident.'

Dramatic footage from the scene captured the panic as passengers used emergency slides to exit the aircraft while flames and thick smoke enveloped the plane's undercarriage.

Emergency services, including personnel from the Denver Fire Department and airport rescue teams, were promptly dispatched to the location.

According to airport officials, the fire broke out while the aircraft remained on the runway. Five passengers were assessed at the scene, with one requiring further medical care. The fire was officially reported as extinguished by 5:10 p.m.

American Airlines later indicated that the incident was linked to a maintenance issue concerning a tire on the landing gear. 'All customers and crew deplaned safely, and the aircraft has been removed from service for inspection,' the airline stated. Passengers were then transported back to the terminal via shuttle buses following the evacuation.

This incident marks the second fire-related occurrence involving a Boeing 737-800 series aircraft at Denver Airport within five months. In March, another American Airlines flight bound for Dallas caught fire on the tarmac, raising alarms about maintenance and safety protocols.

The FAA has initiated an investigation into this recent incident to ascertain the cause and implement necessary preventive measures.