The Federal Bureau of Investigation has launched a major probe into a harrowing mid-air emergency involving a United Airlines Boeing 737, which experienced a catastrophic engine failure while flying over Colorado, forcing pilots to execute an emergency landing at Denver International Airport.
Flight UA2669 from Colorado Springs to Houston became the centre of a major aviation incident when passengers reported hearing a "loud bang" followed by violent shaking and the smell of burning electronics. The aircraft, carrying 154 passengers and crew, was climbing through 10,000 feet when the right engine failed spectacularly.
Passenger Terror and Emergency Response
"We thought we were going to die," recounted one shaken passenger. "The entire plane started vibrating violently, and we could see smoke coming from the engine. People were screaming and crying."
The flight crew immediately declared an emergency, dumping fuel over rural areas before executing a textbook emergency landing back in Denver. Emergency services including fire trucks and ambulances lined the runway as the damaged aircraft touched down safely.
FBI Involvement and Ongoing Investigation
What makes this incident particularly concerning is the immediate involvement of federal authorities. The FBI has confirmed they're working alongside the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) to determine whether criminal activity or mechanical failure caused the engine disintegration.
United Airlines released a statement confirming: "We are fully cooperating with the NTSB and FBI in their investigation. The safety of our customers and crew remains our highest priority."
Boeing's Ongoing Safety Concerns
This incident adds to Boeing's growing list of safety concerns, coming just weeks after another United Airlines Boeing 737 experienced a separate emergency. Aviation experts are particularly concerned about the pattern emerging with the aircraft manufacturer's flagship model.
The damaged aircraft remains grounded in Denver as investigators comb through wreckage and flight data recorders. Passengers have been rebooked on alternative flights, though many say they're too traumatised to fly again soon.
