Plane catches fire on O’Hare Airport runway; Chutes deployed

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CHICAGO – An American Airlines plane suffered a mechanical issue and then part of the plane caught fire on the tarmac at O’Hare International Airport Friday afternoon, forcing the passengers on board to evacuate by the emergency chutes.

American Airlines said the plane aborted takeoff due to an “engine-related mechanical issue,” and the 161 passengers and 9 crew deplaned on the runway. They will be transported back to the terminal in buses.

Bound for Miami, American Airlines flight 383 aborted takeoff around 2:35 PM, according to the FAA.

At least six ambulances were called to the scene, although it remains unclear if there were any injuries.

The runway has been closed as the FAA investigates. Anyone flying through O’Hare should expect delays.

A spokesperson for American Airlines released a statement saying:

American Airlines flight 383, a 767 bound for Miami, aborted take off due to an engine-related mechanical issue. The 161 passengers and 9 crew deplaned on the runway and buses are enroute to pick up the passengers and bring them back to the terminal.

Commuters at O’Hare are posting photos and videos to social media of the scene.