A dramatic incident unfolded when a United Airlines Boeing 737-800 hit an animal during takeoff from Denver International Airport on Sunday. Video captured the fiery aftermath as the right engine began emitting flames. Air traffic control warned the pilots about a burst coming from the plane’s right engine. The pilot confirmed, ‘Yeah, affirm, we think we lost our right motor.’ Flight 2325, carrying 153 passengers and six crew members en route to Edmonton, Canada, reported striking an animal, possibly a rabbit, which had been sighted on the runway. Following an emergency declaration, the pilot announced plans to circle back and return to the airport. Fire trucks responded as part of standard protocol. The aircraft eventually taxied to the gate, and passengers were transferred to another plane for their onward journey. According to FAA data, wildlife strikes at Denver International Airport occurred over 800 times last year, involving various animals including birds, prairie dogs, bats, coyotes, and rabbits.
— new from CNN
