A terrifying incident unfolded Thursday evening at Denver International Airport when an American Airlines flight carrying 178 passengers was forced to make an emergency landing, reportedly catching fire shortly after touchdown. Among those on board was New Orleans Saints center Erik McCoy, who found himself in a life-threatening situation. The 24-year-old offensive lineman, known for his strong presence on the field, shared harrowing details of the event, describing how he feared for his life as the situation escalated.
As the plane made its emergency landing, smoke began to fill the cabin and panic quickly spread. Passengers, including McCoy, were instructed to evacuate the aircraft, with many having to climb out onto the wing to escape the growing fire. Fortunately, McCoy and the other passengers were able to evacuate without any major injuries, though the incident left McCoy shaken and thankful for the second chance.
In his first public comments following the incident, McCoy recounted the terrifying experience and how he never imagined being in such a perilous situation. “It was honestly one of the scariest moments of my life,” he said. “I’ve been through a lot on the football field, but nothing like this. You hear about things like this happening to others, but you never think it will happen to you. In the moment, I thought I was done.”
The flight, a Boeing 737, was traveling to Denver from another city when it encountered a mechanical issue that forced the emergency landing. Once the plane touched down, smoke began pouring into the cabin, and the flight attendants immediately followed emergency procedures to ensure the safety of passengers. McCoy praised the crew for their professionalism in keeping everyone as calm as possible.
“The flight attendants were outstanding,” McCoy recalled. “They stayed calm and that helped everyone else stay calm. But when we had to leave the plane, that’s when it got real. The smoke was thick, and the flames were getting close. I just remember thinking, ‘Get out as fast as you can.’”
As the situation worsened, passengers were forced to evacuate quickly. The heat and smoke inside made the exit difficult, with many of them, including McCoy, climbing out onto the wing of the plane to escape. “It was chaos, but everyone was focused on getting to safety,” he said. “I didn’t have time to think about anything else. I just knew I had to get out.”
Thankfully, emergency response teams at the airport were able to contain the fire, and there were no serious injuries. A few passengers, including McCoy, received medical attention for minor smoke inhalation, but all 178 passengers were accounted for and safely evacuated. The plane was later secured by fire crews, and the flight was ultimately deemed a success due to the quick action of the flight attendants and passengers.
For McCoy, the experience has changed his outlook on life. “When something like this happens, it really makes you stop and think about what’s important,” he said. “Football is my passion, but life comes first. I’m so grateful to be here. I’m just thankful to be alive and to have the chance to keep doing what I love.”
McCoy, who has been a key player for the Saints’ offensive line, was gearing up for a crucial season. Known for his exceptional skill and leadership on the field, McCoy had big plans for his role in New Orleans’ offense. However, after surviving the terrifying ordeal, he’s shifted his focus to gratitude and perspective.
“I’m going to be ready when the season starts, but right now, I’m focused on taking it one day at a time,” McCoy said. “This whole experience made me realize how fragile life is. I’m just trying to appreciate every moment I have. Football will always be there, but life—life is what matters.”
The Saints’ organization and McCoy’s teammates have rallied around him following the ordeal, offering their support as he processes the experience. Saints head coach Dennis Allen expressed relief that McCoy and the other passengers were unharmed. “Erik is a great player, but more importantly, he’s a great person. We’re grateful he’s safe, and we’ll do whatever we can to support him as he recovers from this traumatic event.”
As McCoy reflects on the terrifying experience, it’s clear that this incident has had a profound impact on his outlook on life and his career. While he remains committed to the Saints and the upcoming season, the experience has given him a renewed sense of perspective. The near-death situation has taught him to value the little moments in life, on and off the field.