AA3023 - Boeing 737 MAX 8 Landing Gear Failure During Takeoff

American Airlines Flight 3023, operating from Denver International Airport to Miami International Airport, experienced a severe landing gear failure during takeoff that resulted in a runway fire and emergency evacuation. The Boeing 737 MAX 8 aircraft (registration N306SW) was accelerating for takeoff on runway 34L when passengers heard a loud bang, indicating a tire failure on the left main landing gear. The aircraft had been taxiing for approximately one hour before the incident occurred. As the pilots attempted to abort the takeoff, having reached a maximum speed of 127 knots, the left main landing gear strut collapsed, causing the aircraft to veer left and scrape along the runway. The combination of blown tires and intense braking resulted in a brake fire that quickly spread, with flames and smoke becoming visible from beneath the aircraft. Air traffic control immediately alerted the crew, stating 'You got a lot of smoke' and 'There was some flames.' The Denver Fire Department responded rapidly to extinguish the fire while all 179 persons on board evacuated via emergency slides. The incident caused significant disruption at Denver International Airport, with a ground stop implemented from 2:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. and approximately 240 flights delayed. The aircraft was immediately removed from service for inspection, and passengers were accommodated on a replacement flight.