On Friday, a Hawaiian Airlines flight destined for Hawaii safely halted its takeoff due to an “unstable” nose wheel, prompting an investigation by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). Hawaiian Airlines Flight 33 was set to depart from Los Angeles International Airport at approximately 8 a.m. when the crew decided to abort takeoff as a safety measure, an FAA statement confirmed. Visuals from the event depicted black smoke emerging from the aircraft’s undercarriage as it made its way back on the runway.
A spokesperson for Hawaiian Airlines revealed to FOX Business that prior to takeoff, the aircraft faced a “vibration” issue in the nose wheel. The pilots, acting cautiously, steered the Airbus A330, which was headed for Kahului Airport in Hawaii, back to the gate without any incidents. Once there, passengers disembarked, allowing mechanics to assess and later rectify the issue. The airplane eventually departed from Los Angeles at 11:48 a.m. local time and was en route to Kahului Airport by 5:50 p.m. Eastern Time.
Hawaiian Airlines, which was acquired by Alaska Airlines the previous year, stated, “The safety of our employees and guests is our priority, and we sincerely apologize for any inconvenience.” FAA officials are set to conduct an investigation into the incident.
Separately, a March incident involving American Airlines has led to a lawsuit. A passenger from the flight, Jerry Adamson, filed a negligence and misconduct suit after a Boeing 737-800 caught fire. The plane, initially headed to Dallas Fort Worth International Airport, was diverted to Denver International Airport shortly after takeoff. Legal representatives argue that the airline and its crew neglected proper maintenance and operation protocols and knowingly taxied with a malfunctioning engine. Upon a non-emergency landing, the aircraft’s right engine ignited. Passengers, including Adamson, allegedly inhaled significant amounts of smoke and fire retardant during the evacuation, necessitating medical treatment.
This lawsuit raises questions about airline safety standards and incident handling, as previously reported by FOX Business.