On the 5th of March 2023, a Southwest Boeing 737 MAX was forced to make an emergency landing in Cuba after an engine reportedly caught fire.
The Boeing 737 MAX 8 with registration N8792Q was operating flight WN3923 from Havana Jose Marti Airport to Fort Lauderdale Hollywood Airport. However, shortly after takeoff, the aircraft reportedly experienced a bird strike to an engine and the aircraft’s nose.
Following the detection of smoke in the cabin after the engine failure, the pilots decided to return to Havana. Flight WN3923 safely landed back in Havana and all the passengers and crew members were evacuated via slides. All those on board were then bussed to the terminal.
“Southwest flight WN3923 departing Havana, Cuba, for Fort Lauderdale, Florida on Sunday morning reportedly experienced bird strikes to an engine and the aircraft’s nose shortly after takeoff.”
Southwest Airlines
Footage shared on the internet shows smoke filling the cabin as distressed parents appeared to explain to their children how to properly use oxygen masks. Emergency lighting inside the plane were lit.
Even though no serious injuries have been reported, the experience must have been terrifying for passengers on board. The sudden occurrence of explosion-like sounds, combined with the appearance of smoke and the deployment of oxygen masks would have undoubtedly been alarming.
“We commend the swift, professional actions of our Pilots and Flight Attendants in responding to this event. We apologize to our Customers for the inconvenience and have reached out to offer support.”
Southwest Airlines
Southwest further said that the passengers would be accommodated on another flight to Fort Lauderdale. Cuban airport officials said the passengers were evacuated in good condition and an investigation was underway.
Feature Image via Twitter