Over the past week, three flights experienced unexpected disruptions, involving American Airlines, United Airlines, and Southwest Airlines. Fortunately, all flights returned safely, and no passengers were seriously injured.
On Sunday, United Airlines Flight 2325, traveling from Denver to Edmonton, Canada, struck an animal, believed to be a rabbit, during takeoff. Wildlife strikes, which occur around 20,000 times annually in the U.S., are most often with birds, but mammals and reptiles also contribute to the total. Only a few rabbit strikes have been reported, including one at Denver International Airport. The plane’s right engine caught fire, prompting a safe return to Denver.
On Thursday, Southwest Airlines Flight 3006, en route from Houston’s Hobby Airport to Los Cabos, Mexico, experienced an engine issue and fire. The aircraft, carrying 134 passengers, returned to Hobby, where everyone evacuated via slides. No injuries were reported, and the cause of the engine problem remains unclear. A small fire broke out on the grass near the plane, but it was quickly extinguished by firefighters.
This morning, American Airlines Flight 1784, from Chicago O’Hare to Charlotte Douglas International Airport, also faced an issue. A strange odor was detected on board before landing. The flight landed normally, and medics assessed six passengers. No one required further medical care. While the initial concern was carbon monoxide, the cause of the odor has not yet been determined.
