An American Airlines flight was forced to return to Las Vegas shortly after takeoff due to a mechanical issue, prompting shock among onlookers and concern for passengers.
Videos shared with ABC News showed bursts of flames shooting from one of the engines, sparking alarm both in the air and on the ground. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has confirmed it is investigating the incident and described it as an “engine issue.”
Matthew Villasista, who was golfing nearby, said he saw smoke and heard booming noises that “stopped us in our tracks.” Another witness, Mark Jackson, described the sound as “large fireworks” and said the plane looked like it was “dropping rapidly,” praising the pilots for staying composed under pressure.
American Airlines stated that despite the visuals, there was “no evidence of fire in the engine.” All passengers deplaned safely back in Las Vegas, and the aircraft has been removed from service for further inspection.
The airline expressed gratitude for the crew’s professionalism and noted efforts are underway to rebook passengers.