Blown tire forces jet to return to Los Angeles

updated 4:41 p.m. ET Sept. 2, 2008

LOS ANGELES - An American Airlines jet has landed safely at Los Angeles International Airport after apparently blowing a tire during takeoff for Toronto.

Federal Aviation Administration spokesman Ian Gregor says the Boeing 737 took off from the airport around 11 a.m. Tuesday. The pilot immediately reported the problem in its left main landing gear and asked to return to the airport.

The aircraft circled the airport to burn fuel. Emergency vehicles prepared for an emergency landing.

American Airlines spokesman John Hotard says 130 passengers and five crew members are aboard the plane.

Don't miss these Travel stories from msnbc.com Top 10 national park lodges Traveler's song about United Airlines a hit Road warriors: Unleash your inner geek Look before you leap and other useful lessons French travelers ranked as world’s worst

MORE FROM NEWS

News Section Front

NWA flight attendants challenge uniform sizes Passengers flee 747 after smoke fills cabin Airlines’ on-time marks improved in May Canadian’s song about United Airlines a hit Ex-airline worker 'mortified' over gun on plane Airfare from Hilo going up Jet returns to Calif. airport with engine problem Rails and tales: Free programs for Amtrak riders Boston airport tests radar to avoid bird strikes United fined for not revealing flight information   News Section Front   Add News headlines to your news reader: