A routine takeoff became a dramatic emergency at Denver International Airport on Saturday afternoon. American Airlines Flight AA3023, which is operated by Envoy Air, was engulfed in flames while readying for departure to Miami. The left main landing gear of the aircraft burst into flames at about 2:45 PM local time. Thick smoke billowed out from under the plane, leading to a prompt response by the Denver Fire Department and airport personnel.
All 173 passengers and six crew members evacuated on emergency slides. Emergency services reported only one minor injury. The incident prompted a brief ground stop at the airport. American Airlines later reported that the plane had an issue with maintenance involving a tire. The plane continues to be out of service. In the meantime, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has opened an investigation into the fire.
Second Scare at Denver This Year
The Saturday fire is the second significant American Airlines fire scare at Denver in 2025. It has raised eyebrows once again regarding the safety of the fleet and maintenance operations.
The aviation authorities are under pressure now to thoroughly investigate the airline’s equipment integrity and safety procedures.
Flames, Smoke, and Urgent Evacuation
The Embraer 175 was taxiing down the runway when the fire erupted. The passengers first started smelling smoke as the plane rolled. Airport fire personnel were immediately alerted. They responded promptly and doused the flames before it could spread any further or damage the structure of the aircraft.
NEW – American Airlines Boeing 737 Max catches fire at Denver airport, passengers evacuated after landing gear combusts.pic.twitter.com/D8kC3D2uDL
— Disclose.tv (@disclosetv) July 27, 2025
Videos shared on social media captured the tense scenes. Passengers zoomed down inflatable slides and congregated on the runway. Many stood in clouds of smoke, some holding onto their luggage. Eyewitnesses called the scene chaotic yet well-managed by the crew.
Airline Blames Tire Issue
American Airlines has confirmed the incident in a statement. “The aircraft had a maintenance issue with a landing gear tire just before departure,” it read. “All customers and crew were safely deplaned, and the aircraft was removed from service for inspection by our maintenance team.
The airline also asserted that safety continues to be its first priority. The stricken plane will first undergo a thorough technical examination prior to returning to operation.
Social Media Responds to Emergency
The incident soon ignited responses on social media. One individual on X (formerly Twitter) wrote: “People still pooping their sh*t in an airplane emergency has gotta be the ultimate selfish thing ever.”
Another commented, “This is becoming the norm for flying. This is American Airlines in Denver. Blown rear wheels.”
FAA Launches Probe
The FAA is now examining every facet of the fire. Investigators will examine potential mechanical failure, maintenance shortcuts, or tire defects. Fortunately, quick response by the flight crew and emergency personnel averted a far worse tragedy.
