American Airlines Flight Returns To Las Vegas After Mid-Air Engine Scare; No Injuries Reported

An American Airlines flight bound for Charlotte, North Carolina, was forced to return to Harry Reid International Airport in Las Vegas on Wednesday (June 25) after smoke and flames were seen coming from its left engine shortly after takeoff.

The aircraft, Flight 1665, landed safely at 8.20 am local time, just minutes after departing at 8:11 am, with 153 passengers and six crew members on board, reported Indian Express .

According to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), the Airbus A321 aircraft will be inspected, and an investigation into the incident is underway.

Witnesses and social media videos captured flames and smoke emitting from the plane midair, prompting widespread concern.

Despite these alarming visuals, American Airlines stated that a post-landing inspection by its mechanics revealed no evidence of fire in the engine.

The airline confirmed that the aircraft taxied to the gate under its own power, and passengers deplaned normally without injuries.

In a statement, American Airlines expressed gratitude for the crew's professionalism and assured passengers that efforts were underway to rebook or reroute them to their destinations.

The FAA will continue to probe the cause of the smoke and reported flames.