American Airlines Boeing 737-800 Diverts to Belize After Smoke Incident

On November 26, 2023, an American Airlines Boeing 737-800 operating flight AA327 from Miami to El Salvador was forced to divert to Belize after smoke was detected in the rear cabin. The crew first reported a strange odor accompanied by light vibrations, prompting immediate safety measures, including the shutdown of one engine before safely landing at Philip Goldson International Airport in Belize City.

Emergency services were on standby upon arrival but were ultimately not required. The aircraft, identified by its registration number N951AA, has been grounded since the incident, and an investigation into the cause is currently underway.

Details of the Incident

The flight departed from Miami at approximately 10:35 local time and was scheduled to reach El Salvador by 12:20. At around 11:49, while cruising at an altitude of 31,000 feet, the crew experienced technical issues. About 160 nautical miles east of Belize City, the pilots decided to shut down the right engine, descend to 29,000 feet, and divert to Belize.

Upon landing, emergency teams, including fire, rescue, and ambulance units, were deployed as a precaution. There were 177 passengers and crew on board, and arrangements were made for their onward travel. The passengers were transferred to another Boeing 737-800, registration N876NN, which successfully transported them to El Salvador, arriving at approximately 20:28 local time.

Investigation and Aircraft Background

Authorities are investigating a potential engine malfunction concerning N951AA. Data from Flightradar24 indicates that this aircraft is among the oldest in American Airlines’ fleet, having been delivered in December 2000. It has primarily operated short- and medium-haul routes from Miami, including destinations such as San Antonio, Punta Cana, and Montego Bay.

American Airlines currently operates around 303 Boeing 737-800 aircraft, and N951AA stands out for its retro “Astrojet” livery, which pays homage to the airline’s historical paint schemes. This aircraft reflects a lineage of mergers within American Airlines, including significant integrations with US Airways in 2013, as well as earlier mergers with AirCal, TWA, Reno Air, and PSA.

In addition to maintaining its fleet, American Airlines is preparing for its 100th anniversary in 2026. The airline recently introduced a new retro-style livery on a Boeing 777-300ER, further celebrating its rich history and brand identity.

As investigations continue, American Airlines is likely to enhance its maintenance protocols to ensure passenger safety remains a top priority.