Flight 1006, which was headed from Colorado to Dallas, diverted to Denver and landed safely around 5.15 pm on Thursday after the crew reported engine vibrations, the Federal Aviation Administration said.
While taxiing to the gate, an engine on the Boeing 737-800 caught fire, the FAA added.
Passengers stood on one of the plane’s wings as smoke surrounded the aircraft. The FAA said passengers exited using the slides.
American said the flight experienced an engine-related issue after taxiing to the gate. There was no immediate clarification on exactly when the plane caught fire.
The 172 passengers and six crew members were taken to the terminal.
No injuries were reported.
“We thank our crew members, DEN team and first responders for their quick and decisive action with the safety of everyone on board and on the ground as the priority,” American said.
Firefighters put out the blaze by evening, an airport spokesperson said.
The FAA said it will investigate.
The country has seen a recent spate of aviation disasters and close calls stoking fears about air travel, though flying remains a very safe mode of transport. (AP)
