An American Airlines Boeing 737 MAX 8 (Flight AA-3023) bound for Miami was forced to abort takeoff at Denver International Airport on Saturday after its landing gear caught fire, filling the runway with smoke and causing panic among passengers.
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) confirmed that the incident occurred around 2:45 pm local time, prompting an emergency evacuation. Dramatic footage shows passengers sliding down emergency chutes as smoke billowed around the aircraft. All 173 passengers and crew were safely evacuated, though one passenger sustained a minor injury.
Cause and Investigation
American Airlines reported a “maintenance issue” with a tire on the landing gear, leading to the fire. The aircraft has been removed from service for inspection, while the FAA has launched a detailed probe into the incident.
Airport Response
The Denver Fire Department and first responders quickly reached the scene. “Five passengers were evaluated on-site and were not hospitalized, while one person was taken for further evaluation,” said airport officials. The fire was fully extinguished by 5:10 pm.
Passenger Backlash
A video of a male passenger evacuating the aircraft while holding his child by the neck in one hand and his luggage in the other has gone viral, drawing widespread criticism for his reckless behavior.
Past Incidents
This is the second fire incident at Denver Airport involving an American Airlines Boeing 737 in five months. In March 2025, another flight bound for Dallas caught fire due to engine trouble.
