NTSB Reveals Incorrect Installation of Engine Parts in American Airlines Fire Incident

The American Airlines flight that caught fire shortly after departing from Denver International Airport in March encountered significant mechanical failures due to incorrectly installed engine parts and fuel leaks. This information comes from a preliminary report issued by the National Transportation Safety Board on Thursday.

The aircraft, which was en route to Dallas, had a poorly positioned component within the right engine. Additionally, fuel was leaking from a fitting connected to another part that was not correctly secured, according to the findings reported by the NTSB.

Flight Takeoff and Initial Concerns

Shortly after takeoff, the flight crew began to notice troubling signs coming from the right engine. The NTSB document indicated that high vibrations were detected, prompting the crew to deliberate over the necessity of diverting the flight.

The crew managed to land the aircraft safely. However, upon reaching the gate, passengers and crew began to observe smoke and flames enveloping the cabin. Eyewitness footage captured the urgency of the situation, with passengers seen evacuating the plane and standing on its wings.

Emergency Responses and Passenger Safety

In a critical moment during the evacuation, one flight attendant attempted to alert the flight crew by calling from the cabin, while another knocked on the cockpit door. This rapid response highlighted the crew’s commitment to ensuring passenger safety.

Following the incident, the NTSB investigation revealed the exterior of the engine displayed signs of fuel leakage, prompting investigators to tow the aircraft to a hangar for a thorough examination.

Inspection Results and Engine Damage

An inspection uncovered multiple points of concern, as the aircraft exhibited indications of heat, smoke, and burn damage near several critical areas, including the right engine nacelle, right wing, and right main landing gear.

Among the defects, investigators found that the lockwire securing a fuel fitting on the variable stator vane was improperly installed, contributing to the dangerous fuel leak. Furthermore, one of the fan blade platform components suffered a fracture, raising alarms about the engine’s integrity.

Airflow Control Issues

Another critical finding highlighted that a part responsible for regulating airflow through the turbine’s compressor was incorrectly fastened. This failure compounded the issue, allowing for a continuous fuel leak that exacerbated the already precarious situation.

During the incident, American Airlines reported that there were 172 passengers aboard alongside six crew members.

Damage Assessment and Injuries

The aircraft sustained substantial damage due to the fire, yet remarkably, only 12 passengers along with the six crew members experienced minor injuries. This statistic underscores the effective emergency protocols followed during the evacuation.

The NTSB’s detailed report provides essential insights into the circumstances leading to the incident, emphasizing the critical nature of rigorous safety procedures in aviation.

Stay Informed on Aviation Safety

As investigations continue, the aviation community remains on high alert about mechanical safety and maintenance practices in commercial airlines. American Airlines has stated that they are cooperating fully with ongoing inquiries.

As passengers and industry stakeholders, staying informed about such incidents is crucial. They shed light on vital safety measures that can prevent future occurrences, ensuring air travel remains one of the safest modes of transportation.

Fox News Digital has reached out to American Airlines for additional comments following the report’s release.