An American Airlines flight made an emergency return to Las Vegas on June 25, 2025, after an engine malfunction was reported shortly after takeoff. Flight AA1665, an Airbus A321-211, was en route to Charlotte when it had to turn back just minutes into the flight. Witnesses reported seeing flames and smoke coming from the engine, triggering alarm among passengers and bystanders.
The plane, carrying 153 passengers and six crew members, landed safely at Las Vegas International Airport, with no injuries reported. The incident has raised concerns about aviation safety, prompting investigations by relevant authorities.
Engine Surge Causes Immediate Return
The trouble began shortly after the Airbus A321-211 departed from Harry Reid International Airport at 8:11 AM local time, heading toward Charlotte. According to the Aviation Safety Network, the aircraft experienced a “surge” in engine power, compelling the flight crew to make a decision to return to Las Vegas. The aircraft touched down just nine minutes later, around 8:20 AM, after completing a return flight path.
Despite initial reports of visible flames and smoke, American Airlines stated that upon inspection, no evidence of a fire was found. The plane was able to taxi back to the gate under its own power, and passengers disembarked without further issue.
Passengers’ Reactions and Eyewitness Accounts
The sight of the aircraft with visible engine issues left some witnesses on the ground in a state of panic. Richard Pedrosa, a worker at a nearby construction site, described hearing a loud bang followed by multiple “booms.” Pedrosa, who saw the plane with a fire coming from its engine, feared for the worst, telling the Las Vegas Review-Journal, “I thought, ‘Oh my God, it’s going to explode.'” He and other bystanders watched as the plane turned back toward the airport.
Though alarming for those on the ground, passengers onboard the flight were not reported to be in immediate danger. The aircraft, after returning to Las Vegas, underwent a thorough check by airline technicians, but no major issues were found beyond the engine surge.
Ongoing Investigation into the Incident
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has opened an investigation into the cause of the engine problem. The event has drawn attention to the safety protocols in place for responding to in-flight engine issues and the procedures followed by American Airlines’ crew members.
As of the latest updates, the FAA and other aviation authorities continue to examine the circumstances surrounding the engine malfunction, but no definitive conclusions have been made.
