Passengers on a domestic US flight were forced to evacuate a Boeing 737 MAX 8 aircraft on the runway at Denver International Airport after a fire broke out in the brake system shortly before takeoff, US media reported, News.bg reports.
The incident occurred on Saturday afternoon with American Airlines flight 3023, which was scheduled to depart for Miami. According to official information from the airline, the plane experienced a mechanical problem during takeoff acceleration, which required the emergency evacuation of 173 passengers and six crew members via inflatable stairs. All were evacuated safely and without serious injuries.
One passenger suffered minor injuries and was taken to hospital for examination, the airline said.
According to initial reports, flat tires and sudden braking caused a localized fire in the brake system, which was quickly extinguished by airport fire crews.
Videos shared on social media and in US media outlets show passengers panicking and fleeing down an emergency chute as smoke rises from under the plane.
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has launched an investigation into the incident. Initial reports suggest the crew reported a possible problem with the landing gear during takeoff at around 2:45 p.m. local time.