DALLAS, Texas: Federal authorities are conducting an investigation following reports of an engine fire that prompted a Southwest Airlines aircraft to abort takeoff and return to the gate at Lubbock, Texas, airport on April 4.
Southwest Airlines stated the next day that pilots received indications of a possible engine issue, prompting the Boeing 737 to taxi back to the terminal at Lubbock Preston Smith International Airport.
The Lubbock fire department confirmed via social media that a fire erupted in one of the plane’s two engines, necessitating extinguishment.
The Federal Aviation Administration announced it was launching an inquiry into the incident.
Southwest Airlines reported that the flight, carrying 154 passengers and a crew of six, was bound for Las Vegas. A replacement aircraft was flown in from Dallas to resume the journey later on Thursday evening.
The aircraft was a Boeing 737-800, an older model distinct from the 737 Max series. The engines are manufactured by CFM International, a joint venture between General Electric and France’s Safran S.A.
