The aviation regulator said a Southwest Airlines service from Denver to Houston, operated by a Boeing 737-800 aircraft, was forced to turn back on Sunday morning (7 April) after the crew reported an engine cowling fell off during take-off, striking the wing flap.
No one was hurt and affected passengers were transferred onto a later service to Houston.
“We apologise for the inconvenience of their delay, but place our highest priority on ultimate safety for our customers and employees,” said the carrier in a statement.
