Crew, Passengers Evacuated On Plane’s Wing After Smoke Fills American Airlines Flight’s Cabin
A dramatic and tense moment unfolded on Tuesday morning when crew members and passengers aboard an American Airlines regional jet were forced to evacuate onto the plane’s wing after smoke filled the cabin shortly after landing at Augusta Regional Airport in Georgia.
The incident occurred aboard American Eagle Flight 5406, operated by PSA Airlines, which had just landed at approximately 9:50 a.m. after departing from Charlotte Douglas International Airport. Passengers reported a burning smell and light smoke inside the cabin shortly after landing, prompting an immediate evacuation.
“The cabin was filled with smoke, and we climbed out on the wing,” said passenger Sean O’Conor in a video he recorded during the evacuation. “It looks like everybody is safe.”
Footage shared by Fox News showed passengers using the aircraft’s wing as an exit before jumping down to the tarmac. Emergency responders were on hand to assist as the passengers and crew safely evacuated.
American Airlines confirmed that the aircraft, a Bombardier CRJ900, had experienced a maintenance issue but reassured the public that all passengers had deplaned safely and were escorted to the airport terminal without any injuries.
“The safety of our customers is our top priority, and we apologise for the inconvenience,” the airline said in a statement.
The incident came just a day before another American Airlines regional flight, also on the Charlotte-to-Augusta route, experienced mechanical issues. The CRJ-700 aircraft circled the area for about 20 minutes before returning to Charlotte. After a three-hour delay, the flight later resumed its journey and safely landed in Augusta.
The events highlight the importance of aircraft maintenance and prompt action in emergency situations to ensure the safety of passengers and crew members.
