A Southwest Airlines plane preparing for departure at Dallas Love Field experienced an unexpected incident late on November 10, 2023, when a bullet struck the aircraft. The event disrupted the scheduled flight and prompted an immediate response from authorities.
In a report from Reuters, Southwest Airlines Flight 2494 was preparing for takeoff to Indianapolis when a bullet hit the right side of the plane, just below the flight deck. A Southwest spokesperson confirmed in a statement that the incident occurred as the crew finalized pre-departure procedures.
“No injuries were reported. Law enforcement authorities have been notified, and the plane has been removed from service,” the spokesperson stated. Dallas Love Field officials reported that the incident occurred at approximately 9:50 p.m. local time. Both Dallas police and Dallas Fire-Rescue promptly responded to the scene to ensure passenger safety and investigate the situation further.
Passengers and Aircraft Safety
After the bullet struck the Boeing 737-800, the plane sustained damage near the cockpit. Passengers onboard the aircraft were safely deplaned, according to an official statement from Dallas Love Field. The airport’s statement did not mention Southwest Airlines by name, though it confirmed the nature of the security incident.
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) also confirmed the details, noting the aircraft had been taken out of service to assess the damage and address safety concerns.
Law enforcement authorities are conducting an investigation to determine the circumstances surrounding the incident. Details about the source of the bullet remain unclear, and officials have not released further information at this time. Southwest Airlines has reassured passengers that the safety of customers and crew remains their highest priority. The company continues to cooperate with authorities as they work to resolve the matter.
