WN1394 - Engine Failure Emergency Landing

Southwest Airlines Flight WN1394, a Boeing 737-700 operating from Hollywood Burbank Airport (BUR) to Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX), experienced a left-hand CFM56 engine failure on September 11, 2025. The aircraft departed Burbank at 07:35 PDT with 139 passengers and crew aboard. During the initial climb phase, while passing through 5,000 feet altitude, the flight crew detected a failure of the left-hand CFM56 engine. The pilots immediately discontinued the climb, declared an emergency with air traffic control, and requested a diversion to the nearest suitable airport. Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), located approximately 30 miles southwest of their position, was selected as the emergency landing airport. The crew executed standard engine failure procedures and prepared the cabin for an emergency landing. The aircraft landed safely on runway 24L at LAX at approximately 08:15 PDT, about 34 minutes after the initial departure from Burbank. Emergency response vehicles were positioned alongside the runway as a precautionary measure. All passengers and crew evacuated the aircraft normally via jet bridges, with no injuries reported. The aircraft was immediately grounded for comprehensive inspection and engine repairs. Southwest Airlines accommodated all affected passengers on alternative flights to Phoenix later that day. The FAA opened an investigation into the incident, with the NTSB expected to participate. This incident occurred in the context of recent FAA advisories regarding enhanced inspections for high-cycle CFM56 engines.