A terrifying moment unfolded at Denver International Airport as passengers aboard American Airlines Flight 3023 were forced to evacuate on the runway after a fire erupted on the plane’s landing gear.
The Boeing 737 MAX 8 was preparing for departure to Miami just after 1 PM Mountain Time when the emergency struck. Eyewitness video circulating across social media platforms shows thick smoke rising and passengers frantically sliding down emergency chutes to escape the aircraft.
In one dramatic clip, a man clutches both his child and luggage while fleeing the plane, but tragically trips, causing both to tumble to the ground. The chaotic scene has sparked concern and gone viral as travelers relive the moment through video footage.
According to airport officials, all 179 people onboard… including 173 passengers and 6 crew members… escaped safely. Five individuals received medical attention at the scene, and one was transported to a hospital for further evaluation.
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has labeled the incident a “possible landing gear malfunction” and has launched a full investigation to determine what triggered the fire.
American Airlines has yet to release an official statement regarding the incident.
