On Sunday, a Boeing 737-800 operated by Southwest Airlines experienced a terrifying incident during takeoff. The plane lost its engine cowling which then struck a wing flap, forcing it to make an emergency landing at Denver International Airport. No injuries were reported and the plane was able to land safely around 8:15 a.m. local time.
The Boeing plane had been bound for Houston with 135 passengers and 6 crew members on board when the incident occurred just 25 minutes after takeoff. After returning to the airport, the passengers were eventually flown to their destination with another aircraft, causing a delay of about 4 hours. Southwest Airlines reported that the affected Boeing 737-800 is currently under monitoring by maintenance teams but did not disclose when the engine was last serviced.
The FAA has launched an investigation into the incident involving Southwest Flight 3695, which comes amidst a series of other investigations involving Southwest Airlines Boeing aircraft in recent weeks, including reported engine problems during takeoff and possible fire incidents. The FAA has also ordered Boeing to address systematic quality control issues following mounting scrutiny over technical defects discovered in their aircraft.
Boeing has faced mounting scrutiny following these incidents and investigations into their aircraft’s safety record. It remains to be seen how these investigations will impact the company’s reputation and future business prospects in the aviation industry.
