Southwest faces multiple incidents including diversion and gunfire strike

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Southwest faces multiple incidents including diversion and gunfire strike

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By Sky Industry News

Nov 17, 2024

A Southwest Airlines Boeing 737-800 was diverted to Sacramento International Airport on November 13th due to a flap issue while en route from Oakland International to Reno–Tahoe International. The aircraft, with registration N8668A, was approaching Reno's runway when the crew identified the problem and decided to divert. It landed safely in Sacramento approximately 40 minutes later.

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) stated, "Southwest Airlines Flight 4474 landed safely at Sacramento International Airport around 8 p.m. local time on Wednesday, Nov. 13, after the crew reported a possible flap issue. The Boeing 737-800 departed from San Francisco Bay Oakland International Airport for Reno-Tahoe International Airport. The FAA will investigate."

This incident is part of a series of events involving Southwest Airlines during the week. On November 12th, another Southwest Boeing 737-700 experienced engine issues shortly after departing from San Jose International Airport bound for Burbank Bob Hope Airport. The flight returned safely to San Jose about 35 minutes post-departure.

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The FAA confirmed this engine-related incident and announced an investigation would follow.

On November 15th, emergency slides were deployed on a Southwest Airlines Boeing 737 at Denver International Airport following a phone battery fire onboard. A passenger sustained minor injuries during evacuation procedures prompted by the fire which ignited an airplane seat.

In relation to this event, the FAA remarked: "Passengers in the front half of the plane exited through the jet bridge. Passengers in the rear half of the plane exited using slides."

Additionally, on November 15th, gunfire reportedly struck another Southwest Boeing 737-800 near its cockpit while taxiing for takeoff at Dallas Love Field Airport. No injuries were reported as passengers were transferred onto a replacement flight operated by a Boeing 737 MAX 8.

The FAA commented: "While taxiing for takeoff at Dallas Love Field Airport, Southwest Airlines Flight 2494 was reportedly struck by gunfire near the cockpit around 8:30 p.m. local time on Friday, Nov. 15. The Boeing 737-800 returned to the gate where passengers deplaned."