A flight leaving Houston unexpectedly caught fire after it departed, forcing pilots to make a terrifying emergency landing.

MECHANICAL ISSUES ON FLIGHT 307

A Southwest Airlines flight leaving departing Houston, Texas to Cancun, Mexico was seen leaving trails of smoke in the air. According to Southwest, "Flight 307 experienced a mechanical issue shortly after takeoff."

TRAILS OF SMOKE SEEN FROM THE GROUND

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From the ground, trails of smoke could be seen bursting out of the airplane. However, passengers on board had an even more frightening view. One passenger, Ricardo Garcia, was sitting in a window seat right next to the right wing. Garcia took a moment and recorded a short video of the frightening scene.

A PASSENGER RECORDS THE TERRIFYING FIRE 

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During the 17-second clip, fire constantly shot out of the right engine while the plane continued soaring through the air. However, the pilots were able to turn the plane around and make a quick emergency landing back into the airport.

SOUTHWEST MAKES A STATEMENT

 Garcia gratefully wrote in his video, “Thanks to the pilots of Southwest Airlines Flight 307 Houston-Cancun for returning us to the ground after losing an engine. Thank you!!!”

The airlines took the malfunctioned airplane away and began to review it. Meanwhile, passengers were switched to a different flight and eventually made it to Cancun.

“The aircraft landed safely, was taken out of service for review, and a different aircraft continued the flight to Cancun Tuesday evening,” Southwest Airlines stated. “We applaud the crew for their professionalism, and we appreciate our customers’ patience.”

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