Huge jet’s tires catch FIRE as it lands at LAX airport
A DHL-operated cargo aircraft made an emergency landing at Los Angeles International Airport on Wednesday night after a brake-related problem led to a fire around its landing gear. No crew members were injured, but the incident prompted an emergency response and the closure of runway 25.
The Boeing 737 had arrived from Phoenix at about 11pm, with video showing sparks, smoke and flames after touchdown. The pilot reported that the brakes may have locked or a tyre may have blown, while a DHL representative said overheating brakes caused the issue; the Los Angeles Fire Department sent 13 units to extinguish the fire.
- Cargo jet landed safely after brake-related fire at LAX
- No crew injuries were reported
- Runway 25 was temporarily closed
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Los Angeles International Airport, known as LAX, is one of the busiest airports in the United States. It has several runways, and closing one can affect how aircraft land and take off while airport teams deal with an emergency.
DHL is a global delivery company that operates cargo aircraft to move parcels and goods. The Boeing 737 is a common type of passenger and cargo plane; its landing gear includes wheels, tyres and brakes that help it slow down after landing.
Aircraft brakes can become very hot during landing, and a fault involving the brakes or tyres can cause smoke or fire near the wheels. Emergency crews at airports are trained to respond to such incidents, which can require a runway to be temporarily closed.