Video of the April 7 emergency landing shared to social media shows the torn metal flapping wildly against the wing. The captain can be heard speaking calmly over a PA system while passengers speak nervously in the background.
The plane returned safely to Denver International Airport at about 8:15 a.m. and nobody was injured, according to the Federal Aviation Administration.
“The crew reported the engine cowling fell off during takeoff and struck the wing flap,” according to an FAA news release.
The aircraft, which officials say was a Boeing 737-800, was towed back to the gate. The flight was bound for William P. Hobby Airport in Houston.
The FAA says it is investigating the incident.
Southwest Airlines says it has maintenance teams “reviewing the aircraft.”
“Southwest Flight 3695 returned to Denver International Airport this morning and landed safely after experiencing a mechanical issue,” Southwest said in a statement. “Our Customers arrived at Houston Hobby on another aircraft, approximately three hours behind schedule. We apologize for the inconvenience of their delay, but place our highest priority on ultimate Safety for our Customers and Employees.”
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