Just imagine stepping onto a plane for a much-anticipated trip and then witnessing flames licking at the landing gear as chaos erupts around you. That's exactly what happened on American Airlines Flight 3023 as it prepared to take off from Denver International Airport for Miami.

On the afternoon of July 26, 2025, this Boeing 737 MAX 8 was all set to soar when a frightening malfunction struck before it even left the tarmac. Eyewitness videos flooded social media, capturing the terrifying moment when passengers were forced to evacuate amid smoke and flames.

As the plane stood on the runway, one of its main tires caught fire, sending smoke billowing into the air. The scene was nothing short of chaotic. Passengers and crew scrambled to escape, utilizing inflatable slides to exit the aircraft. While some managed to glide down with grace, others tripped and tumbled onto the ground, adding a touch of unintentional humor to an otherwise alarming experience.

Among those escaping the fiery scene was a father, who, in a moment of panic, tried to juggle both his child and luggage. Unfortunately, his heroic attempt ended with a dramatic fall, showcasing the sheer panic that filled the air.

According to airport officials, all 179 individuals on board—173 passengers and 6 crew members—evacuated safely. Thankfully, only five individuals required treatment at the scene, and one person was transported to the hospital for further care. The FAA has since announced an investigation into this alarming incident, attributing the fiery fiasco to a "possible landing gear incident." As of now, American Airlines has yet to respond to inquiries.