A Southwest plane lost an engine cover mid-flight

A Southwest Airlines Boeing 737-800 lost its engine cover during takeoff in Denver, striking the wing flap. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has opened an investigation into the incident.

Despite the scare, Flight 3695 returned safely to Denver International Airport. No injuries were reported among the 135 passengers and six crew. 

The plane, headed for Houston, had to turn back shortly after takeoff.

The incident comes amid ongoing scrutiny of Boeing's safety protocols, following previous incidents involving its aircraft and just a few days after the company’s board said that its CEO Dave Calhoun received $32.8 million in compensation in 2023—up 45% from the previous year.

But he declined the $2.8 million annual bonus in 2023 after the door plug panel blowout in January.

Calhoun’s retirement package includes a $45 million mix of stock awards.