Southwest Boeing 737 Loses Engine Cover During Takeoff

HOUSTON, USA – Airline regulators in the U.S. have begun an investigation after an engine cowling on a Boeing 737-800 fell off during take-off and struck a wing flap.

The FAA said Southwest flight 3695 was on its way to Houston’s William P. Hobby Airport and safely returned to the gate at Denver on Sunday morning.

Southwest said their maintenance teams are reviewing the aircraft. In response to a request for comment, Boeing pointed to Southwest’s statement.

The cowling loss comes as the FAA investigates a separate Southwest incident in march. One of its flights strayed off course and flew close to the air traffic control tower at La Guardia Airport as it attempted a landing in New York.