A Boeing 737-800 operated by Southwest Airlines experienced a harrowing incident during takeoff from Denver International Airport. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) reported that the aircraft lost an engine cover, resulting in a flap being torn from the wing.

The incident, involving Southwest flight 3695 destined for William P. Hobby Airport in Houston, prompted an immediate return to the embarkation gate in Denver at around 8:15 am local time.

Passengers were reassigned to another aircraft, causing approximately a three-hour delay in their journey to Houston. Southwest Airlines stated that their maintenance team conducted a thorough inspection of the affected aircraft. Meanwhile, the FAA has initiated an investigation into the incident.

Southwest has yet to disclose details regarding the maintenance history of the aircraft and its engine. This incident adds to the challenges facing the aviation industry, particularly Southwest Airlines, in recent times.

In March, another incident involving a Southwest flight garnered attention when it deviated from its course and came dangerously close to the air traffic control tower at LaGuardia Airport during landing in New York.

The Boeing 737 involved in the Denver incident is an older model, distinct from the Max Series, which has been under regulatory scrutiny due to safety concerns. Boeing has faced challenges with quality control, underscored by the January incident involving a nearly new 737 Max 9, where a door cover exploded during flight, highlighting safety risks and causing delivery delays.

The FAA certification for Boeing’s newer models, specifically the 737 Max 7 and Max 10, has been delayed, impacting the company’s operations and plans. Boeing’s CEO, Dave Calhoun, recently announced his intention to step down at the end of the year amidst leadership changes in the company’s commercial aircraft unit.

The investigation into the Denver incident is expected to shed light on maintenance protocols and safety measures within Southwest Airlines and the aviation industry as a whole.