A Southwest Boeing 737 MAX was had to make an emergency landing in Cuba on March 5, 2023, after an engine reported caught fire.
Flight WN3923 was being operated from Havana Jose Marti Airport to Fort Lauderdale Hollywood Airport with a Boeing 737 MAX 8 with the registration N8792Q. The aircraft apparently suffered bird strikes to an engine and the nose shortly after takeoff.
The pilots made the decision to head back to Havana after smoke was seen in the cabin following the engine failure. All passengers and crew members were safely evacuated using slides after flight WN3923 made a safe landing back in Havana. Everyone on board was then transported to the terminal via bus.
“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.” the airline claimed.
Online videos show smoke filling the cabin as distressed parents appear to instruct their kids on how to wear oxygen masks. The aircraft’s emergency lighting was turned on.
The event must have been terrible for the passengers on board, despite the fact that no significant injuries have been reported.
Southwest said: “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.”
🚨 #ÚltimaHora: un #B737 #MAX8 de #Southwest ha tenido que volver de emergencia al aeropuerto José Martí de La Habana (Cuba) al sufrir un problema de motor después del despegue. Los pasajeros fueron evacuados en la calle de rodaje. No hay heridos.
📸 Unknown pic.twitter.com/F3SKoTx3dJ
— On The Wings of Aviation (@OnAviation) March 5, 2023
Southwest added that they will accommodate the passengers on a different trip to Fort Lauderdale. The passengers were taken away in good condition, according to airport officials in Cuba, and an investigation was ongoing.
Photo Cover via Twitter
