On Sunday, April 7th, 2024, a Southwest Airlines Boeing 737-800 bound for Houston, Texas (flight number 3695) experienced a serious incident during takeoff from Denver International Airport (DIA). The engine cover, also known as a cowling, reportedly ripped off the plane and struck the wing flap. There were no injuries reported among the 135 passengers and 6 crew members onboard. The aircraft returned safely to DIA, where it was met by emergency crews.
Swift Return to Denver
According to news reports, Southwest Airlines Flight 3695 reached an altitude of approximately 10,300 feet (3,140 meters) before the crew was forced to turn back to Denver. Passengers reported a loud bang and feeling a significant jolt, with some comparing it to a “bomb jolt.” Video footage captured by passengers on the plane shows the ripped engine cover flapping in the wind as the aircraft descended.
Upon landing, the plane was taxied to the gate and inspected by maintenance crews. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has launched an investigation into the cause of the incident.
Passenger Reactions and Airline Response
Passengers onboard the flight spoke to US media outlets about their experience. One passenger recounted to ABC News the feeling of panic after witnessing the engine cover detach, followed by the crew’s swift response and safe landing. Southwest Airlines has apologized for the incident and assured a thorough review of the aircraft by maintenance personnel.
Boeing Under Scrutiny
This latest incident comes at a time when Boeing is already facing intense scrutiny regarding manufacturing and safety concerns. In January 2024, an Alaska Airlines 737 Max 9 jet experienced a door plug panel detaching at high altitude. This incident led to the grounding of the 737 Max fleet for several weeks, with the FAA demanding a comprehensive plan from Boeing to address “systemic quality-control issues.”
The 737-800 involved in Sunday’s incident is part of an earlier generation of the 737 aircraft than the 737 Max. However, this event does little to alleviate concerns over Boeing’s overall manufacturing processes.
FAA Investigation and Maintenance History Questions
The FAA is currently investigating the cause of the engine cover detachment on the Southwest Airlines 737-800. While the plane entered service in June 2015, Southwest Airlines has declined to comment on when the last maintenance inspection of the engine in question occurred.
The FAA is also investigating other recent engine-related issues reported on Southwest Boeing aircraft.
Looking Ahead: Safety in the Skies
The Southwest Airlines Boeing 737-800 engine cover incident raises significant questions about Boeing’s manufacturing quality and potential safety hazards. The ongoing FAA investigation will hopefully shed light on the cause of this event.
This incident also underscores the ongoing challenges faced by the aviation industry in ensuring passenger safety. While the safe return of Southwest Airlines Flight 3695 is a positive outcome, this event serves as a stark reminder of the importance of rigorous safety standards and inspections across the entire aviation manufacturing and maintenance chain.
