Bird strike: Video shows moment Spirit passengers had to evacuate plane in Atlantic City
A total of 102 passengers and seven crew members were on the plane when it caught fire.
ATLANTIC CITY, New Jersey (WPVI) -- A new video shows the moment passengers in Atlantic City, New Jersey had to escape a plane that caught fire on Saturday.
It happened around 6 p.m. as a Spirit Airlines plane was departing for Fort Lauderdale, Florida.
As it was accelerating for takeoff, Spirit Airlines says the bird flew into the plane's engine. The pilot was able to stop the plane safely despite the engine catching fire.
SEE ALSO: Passengers forced to evacuate after plane catches fire at Atlantic City International Airport
Video showed passengers sliding down the emergency exit to get to safety.
A total of 102 passengers and seven crew members were on board at the time. Two people suffered minor injuries, officials say.
Spirit Airlines released this statement on the incident:
"Spirit Airlines flight 3044 from Atlantic City to Fort Lauderdale encountered what is believed to be a large bird while accelerating for takeoff in Atlantic City, which entered one of the plane's engines.
The captain braked safely and brought the plane to a stop, received an indication of damage to the engine, and ordered an evacuation in accordance with our standard procedures.
All Guests and Team Members evacuated the aircraft and were bussed back to the terminal. We commend our crew for handling the situation swiftly and safely.
Our Guests will receive full refunds, a future travel voucher and the option of travelling to Fort Lauderdale on another plane tonight."
