American Airlines 737 found with apparent bullet hole after Colombia flight

The damage was discovered after the plane landed in Medellín, raising concerns about the safety of air travel in the region.

Published on Feb. 24, 2026

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An American Airlines 737 MAX 8 aircraft was found to have an apparent bullet hole in its right wing after a flight from Miami, Florida, to Medellín, Colombia. The damage was discovered by ground crew after the plane landed, and sources say it is consistent with a bullet strike. There were no injuries or flight-related issues, but the plane was immediately removed from service for further inspection and repair.

Why it matters

This incident raises concerns about the safety and security of air travel in certain regions, particularly as airlines have faced challenges with gunfire and other threats to their aircraft in recent years. It also highlights the importance of thorough aircraft inspections and the need for continued vigilance to ensure the safety of passengers and crew.

The details

The apparent bullet hole was located in the right aileron of the 737 MAX 8 aircraft. Ailerons are important flight control surfaces that generate an aircraft's roll. After the damage was discovered, the plane underwent temporary repairs and operated as scheduled back to Miami, where it remained grounded for further inspection.

  • The incident occurred on Monday, February 24, 2026, after the plane landed in Medellín, Colombia.
  • The plane then flew back to Miami, Florida, on Monday morning.

The players

American Airlines

The major U.S. airline that operated the flight from Miami to Medellín.

Civil Aviation Authority

The Colombian equivalent of the Federal Aviation Administration, which is now investigating the incident.

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What they’re saying

“Following a routine inspection, our teams identified a puncture to the exterior of one of our aircraft in Medellín, Colombia. The aircraft was immediately removed from service for further inspection and repair. We will work closely with all relevant authorities to investigate this incident.”

— American Airlines (CBS News)

What’s next

The Civil Aviation Authority in Colombia is investigating the incident to determine the cause and circumstances of the apparent bullet hole. American Airlines has also stated that it will work closely with authorities to further investigate the matter.

The takeaway

This incident highlights the ongoing challenges airlines face in ensuring the safety and security of their aircraft, particularly in regions with heightened security concerns. It underscores the importance of robust aircraft inspection protocols and close collaboration between airlines, regulators, and local authorities to address such threats to air travel.