NTSB: Faulty Engine Assembly Caused American Airlines Fire
A preliminary report from the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has revealed that incorrect engine part installation and fuel leaks were responsible for a fire on an American Airlines flight that departed from Denver International Airport in March. The Dallas-bound aircraft experienced abnormal engine vibrations shortly after takeoff, prompting the crew to consider diverting the flight.
According to the NTSB, the right engine contained multiple parts installed incorrectly. One part was installed in the wrong direction, while another had a faulty fuel fitting, leading to leaks. After the plane landed safely and reached the gate, fire and smoke began filling the cabin, prompting an emergency evacuation. Passengers were seen exiting the aircraft onto the wing.
Investigators reported heat, smoke, and burn damage near the right engine nacelle, the fuselage, the right wing, and the right main landing gear area. A fractured fan blade platform and loose lockwire on the variable stator vane’s fuel fitting were also noted.
The flight was carrying 172 passengers and six crew members. A total of 18 people sustained minor injuries during the evacuation. The aircraft suffered substantial damage, and the NTSB report indicated that leaking fuel left dark streaks along the right engine’s exterior, consistent with in-flight streamlining.
American Airlines has not provided further comment on the incident beyond confirming passenger and crew numbers. The investigation remains ongoing as safety officials continue examining the causes and potential maintenance failures that led to the engine fire.
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