An American Airlines Boeing 737-800, operating flight AA327 from Miami to San Salvador, diverted to Belize City on November 26, 2023, due to smoke reported in the rear cabin. The crew first detected a strange odor and experienced light vibrations during the flight. Following these warnings, they shut down one engine and initiated a diversion to Belize, landing safely without the need for emergency services.
The aircraft involved, registered as N951AA, departed Miami at approximately 10:35 local time and was scheduled to arrive in El Salvador at 12:20. Around 11:49, while cruising at an altitude of FL310, the flight crew reported technical issues. When located approximately 160 nautical miles east of Belize City, the pilots made the decision to shut down the right engine, descend to FL290, and divert to Belize.
Upon arrival, emergency teams including fire, rescue, and ambulance units were mobilized as a precaution. American Airlines confirmed that 177 passengers and crew were on board, and arrangements were made for their onward travel. The passengers subsequently completed their journey on another Boeing 737-800, registered as N876NN, which arrived in El Salvador around 20:28 local time.
Investigation into Technical Malfunction Underway
Authorities are currently investigating the incident, focusing on a potential engine malfunction. The diverted aircraft, N951AA, remains grounded at Philip Goldson International Airport while inspections are conducted. This aircraft is notable as one of the oldest in American Airlines’ fleet, having been delivered in December 2000.
Data from ch-aviation indicates that American Airlines operates a fleet of around 303 Boeing 737-800 aircraft. The aircraft involved has been predominantly utilized for short- and medium-haul routes from Miami, servicing destinations such as San Antonio, Punta Cana, Oranjestad, and Montego Bay. Interestingly, it is painted in the “Astrojet” retro livery, celebrating one of American’s mid-20th-century paint schemes.
American Airlines has a history of maintaining retro-painted aircraft that reflect its merger history. The airline was formed through several mergers, most notably with US Airways in 2013, along with earlier integrations involving AirCal, TWA, Reno Air, and PSA. The retro jets serve as a nod to this lineage, with recent examples including a TWA-themed Boeing 737-800 and a Reno Air 737-800.
Looking ahead, American Airlines is preparing for its 100th anniversary in 2026, recently introducing a new retro-style livery on a Boeing 777-300ER, registered N735AT. This aircraft features a modern interpretation of one of American’s earliest liveries, signaling the airline’s commitment to its heritage while adapting to contemporary designs.
As the investigation progresses, American Airlines emphasizes passenger safety and the integrity of its fleet, ensuring that thorough checks are completed before returning any aircraft to service.
