According to the Federal Aviation Administration, on Sunday morning, a Southwest Airlines flight was forced to make an emergency landing due to the detachment of the engine cover during takeoff.
According to both the airport and the airline, the Boeing 737-800 aircraft, originally bound for Houston from Denver, safely returned to Denver International Airport and was towed to the gate at around 8:00 a.m.
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), currently investigating the incident, reported that the flight crew members stated that “the engine cowling detached and hit the wing flap during takeoff.”
Southwest Airlines has confirmed that a flight encountered a mechanical issue but landed safely. The airline assured that all passengers were rebooked on alternative flights, while their maintenance teams are currently conducting a thorough inspection of the aircraft.
“I can’t believe it all blew away!” exclaimed one passenger in a video captured by Lisa C. As the plane safely landed, cheers erupted from the passengers on board.
Lisa C. informed ABC News that the engine cowling had come off within the first 10 minutes of the flight.
“I felt a sudden bump and jolt, prompting me to glance out the window as I have a fondness for window seats. To my surprise, there it was,” she recounted.
Cooper Glass, another passenger, expressed to ABC News that the encounter was truly frightening.
Glass stated that the individuals in the exit row opposite him began shouting to get the attention of the flight attendants and pointed out the extent of the damage.
The pilot was praised by Glass, who commended their exceptional landing skills.
This report was contributed to by ABC News’ Sam Sweeney, Samira Said, and Helena Skinner.