DENVER — A Southwest Airlines plane returned to Denver Sunday morning after its engine cowling fell off and struck the wing flap during takeoff, according to the Federal Aviation Administration.
The Boeing 737 landed safely and the Houston-bound passengers were put on another plane, Southwest Airlines said in a statement.
“We apologize for the inconvenience caused by their delays, but our highest priority is the ultimate safety for our customers and employees. Our maintenance teams are assessing the aircraft,” the statement said.
It is the second accident this week for the airline, with a flight from Texas canceled on Thursday after a report of an engine fire. The Lubbock, Texas Fire Department confirmed online that there was a fire in one of the two engines that had to be extinguished.
The FAA is investigating both incidents.
Both planes were Boeing 737-800s, an older model than the 737 Max.