Incident on Board American Airlines: Passengers Concerned Over Missing Part of Plane

By Ivan PetrenkoNov 13, 2024 09:35 AMNews
Share:
American Airlines plane parked at the gate
Pre-flight maintenance causes concern among passengers. Source: pixabay

An incident on an American Airlines flight from Dallas to California caused a wave of concern among passengers when one of them noticed that a part of the plane seemed to be missing. 26-year-old Taylor Hilton, sitting by the window, recorded the scene and couldn't hold back her reaction, asking, 

I'm sorry. Are we about to take off? There's a part of the plane missing.
Taylor Hilton

It turned out that before takeoff, airline mechanics had removed a part from the plane's wing. This caused serious alarm for Taylor and other passengers. "I'm sorry, but there's a part of the plane missing," she stated when the part was taken away, expressing her surprise at why it wasn't being put back. She felt an overwhelming urge to get off the plane because of the situation.

Crew’s Response and the Pilot’s Explanation

One of the flight attendants, upon seeing the video, showed it to the pilot, who soon made an announcement to the passengers, explaining that the removed part served aerodynamic purposes and did not affect the plane's safety. According to the pilot, the absence of this piece posed no threat to a normal takeoff and flight. Reassured by this explanation, Taylor was eventually able to relax and enjoy the flight.

A Lesson for Travelers

This incident highlights the importance for airlines to provide clear information to passengers in such situations. For travelers, it serves as a reminder of the importance of paying attention to the information given by the crew and of their right to seek clarification when there are concerns about safety.

Top Articles
Top 10 reasons for flight cancelation by airlines: a clear algorithm of actions to get compensation

Top 10 reasons for flight cancelation by airlines: a clear algorithm of actions to get compensation

Oct 16, 2025 16:22 PM
Smartphone with eSIM logo surrounded by travel essentials like flowers, map, camera, and sunglasses

Where to Buy eSIM at the Best Price: A Full Review of Tariffs and Options

Aug 8, 2025 10:54 AM

Internet on a Cruise: How to Avoid Huge Bills for Connectivity

Aug 6, 2025 09:14 AM

No More SIM Swaps: The eSIM Travel Solution You’ll Actually Use

Aug 4, 2025 16:51 PM
More News
Modern hotel room with neutral decor and large bed

New Hotel Opening Brings Scandic to Norway’s Coastal Town of Florø

Dec 2, 2025 23:31 PM
Spanish flag waving outside a historic building in Madrid

London City Restores Madrid Route

Dec 2, 2025 23:17 PM

Chiang Mai Expands Its Cultural Map with New Riverside Museum

Dec 2, 2025 22:45 PM

Rail and Road Works Bring Delays for Lake Como Visitors

Dec 2, 2025 22:32 PM
Crowded nightclub with a DJ performing under bright purple and blue lights

Koh Samui Expands Its Winter Event Season with New Nightlife Schedule

Dec 2, 2025 22:28 PM
Open passport with multiple entry and exit stamps

Hannover Airport Launches New EU Entry–Exit System for Non-EU Travellers

Dec 1, 2025 23:46 PM
SAS aircraft taxiing at a Scandinavian airport

New SAS–Aeromexico Codeshare Opens Links Between Scandinavia and Mexico

Dec 1, 2025 22:59 PM
Air Transat aircraft approaching for landing

New Canada–Brazil Links Set to Boost Travel Across South America

Dec 1, 2025 21:33 PM
Overwater villas on a clear lagoon in the Maldives

A Redesigned Mirihi Brings Fresh Choices for Future Maldives Trips

Dec 1, 2025 20:44 PM

December Rail Disruptions Set to Impact Travel Through Somerset

Dec 1, 2025 19:27 PM

Travel Tuesday Offers Bring Rare Chance for Lower Hotel Costs Worldwide

Dec 1, 2025 18:51 PM
Saxophone player performing under stage lights

Pattaya Confirms Dates for 2025 Beachfront Jazz Festival

Nov 30, 2025 16:55 PM
Exterior of a Chinese airport terminal at sunset with parked buses

Lhasa Airport Introduces New Check-In Deadline for Domestic Flights

Nov 29, 2025 17:42 PM
Black Friday travel deals graphic on a warm gradient background

Major Airlines Roll Out Black Friday Deals for 2026 Travel

Nov 29, 2025 16:39 PM
Reykjavík houses with snow-covered mountains in the background

New Direct Link: Wizz Air to Launch Vilnius–Reykjavík Route in March 2026

Nov 29, 2025 15:26 PM

TUI Expands Schedule from Paderborn/Lippstadt

Nov 29, 2025 14:43 PM

Frankfurt Airport Unveils Lufthansa’s Upgraded Check-in Space for Premium Passengers

Nov 29, 2025 13:39 PM
Passengers boarding a crowded aircraft cabin

Long-Haul Made Easier: Air India Cabin Crew Shares Simple In-Flight Tips

Nov 28, 2025 22:34 PM
Christmas tree and passengers moving through a busy airport hall

Gatwick Shares Practical Tips for Europe’s Christmas Market Rush

Nov 28, 2025 20:49 PM
Large waves crashing against a coastal breakwater during stormy weather

Strong Winds Disrupt Travel Plans Along Croatia’s Coast

Nov 28, 2025 20:23 PM
People crossing a city street under umbrellas during heavy rain

Unsettled UK Forecast Brings Challenges for Travellers

Nov 28, 2025 19:36 PM
Blue bus arriving at a snowy roadside stop

Holiday Bus Changes Set to Affect Regional Travel Plans

Nov 28, 2025 18:48 PM

Flying With Skis: Finnair Snow Team Member Shares Practical Tips for Winter Travellers

Nov 28, 2025 02:22 AM

Direct Salzburg–Pristina Flights Launching in 2026

Nov 28, 2025 01:35 AM
Passengers waiting at a London bus stop on a cloudy autumn day

London Bus Strikes to Disrupt Key Holiday Travel Days

Nov 27, 2025 23:29 PM
Japan Airlines aircraft taking off with snowy mountains in the background

Seasonal Flights to Tokyo See Black Friday Price Shift

Nov 27, 2025 21:46 PM