Southwest Flight Diverts to Emergency Landing Following Reported ‘Mechanical Issue,’ Confirms Airline

In a dramatic turn of events, a Southwest Airlines flight was compelled to execute an emergency landing Sunday morning following the detachment of its engine cover during takeoff, as reported by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).

The Boeing 737-800 aircraft, originally set to depart from Denver en route to Houston, managed to land back safely at Denver International Airport just after 8:00 a.m., according to statements from both the airport and the airline.

The FAA, which has initiated an investigation into the incident, revealed that crew members on board the flight reported that “the engine cowling fell off during takeoff and struck the wing flap,” leading to urgent scrutiny into the cause of the mishap.

In response to the emergency, Southwest Airlines issued a statement confirming that the flight “landed safely after experiencing a mechanical issue.” Passengers affected by the incident were promptly rebooked onto alternative flights, with maintenance crews now undertaking a thorough inspection of the aircraft to identify the underlying cause, the airline disclosed.

Footage captured by some passengers depicted what appeared to be a portion of the plane’s exterior hanging loose and flapping in the wind, providing a visual testament to the severity of the mid-flight incident.

In a video shared by passenger Lisa C., a voice can be heard commenting, “It all blew away,” followed by audible expressions of relief and applause among passengers as the plane safely returned to the tarmac.

Lisa C. recounted how the engine cowling detachment occurred “within the first 10 minutes” of the flight, describing the sensation of a sudden bump and jolt before witnessing the detachment from her window seat.

Another passenger, Cooper Glass, recounted the experience as “frightening,” detailing how passengers seated in the exit row quickly alerted flight attendants to the damage, emphasizing the critical role of swift communication and response protocols in such emergencies.

Glass also commended the pilot for their adept handling of the situation, praising their skillful navigation of the aircraft to ensure the safety of all passengers on board.

The incident serves as a stark reminder of the unpredictable nature of air travel and the imperative need for robust safety measures to protect passengers and crew members alike. As investigations into the engine cover detachment continue, authorities remain vigilant for any further developments or safety implications stemming from the incident, prioritizing the welfare and security of air travelers above all else.