NTSB: American Airlines Jet Fire in Denver Caused by Faulty Installation, Fuel Leaks

A preliminary report from the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has revealed that an American Airlines jet that caught fire shortly after takeoff from Denver International Airport in March had several mechanical issues, including fuel leaks and parts installed incorrectly.

The Dallas-bound flight encountered trouble shortly after becoming airborne, when the crew noticed abnormal vibrations in the right engine. According to the report released Thursday, the captain identified high engine vibration levels and the flight crew considered diverting the plane before contacting American Airlines dispatch.

The aircraft ultimately landed safely back in Denver. However, once the plane reached the gate, smoke and fire were observed, prompting an emergency evacuation. Passengers and crew members were seen in dramatic images and videos exiting the aircraft and standing on the plane’s wings.

According to the NTSB, one of the flight attendants knocked on the cockpit door to alert the pilots of the fire, while another attempted to call the flight crew. A subsequent inspection revealed significant fire and heat damage near the right engine, wing, fuselage, and landing gear.

Investigators found a part inside the right engine installed in the wrong direction, and another component that controls airflow through the turbine’s compressor had been fastened incorrectly, allowing fuel to leak. The report also detailed a loose lockwire on a fuel fitting associated with the variable stator vane (VSV), further contributing to the engine malfunction.

In addition, one of the engine’s fan blade platforms was discovered to be fractured. Dark fuel streaks consistent with in-flight streamlines were observed on the outside of the engine.

The aircraft was carrying 172 passengers and six crew members at the time of the incident. The NTSB reported that 12 passengers and all six crew members sustained minor injuries. The plane itself suffered what the agency classified as “substantial damage.”

With input from Fox News