Flames And Fur Cause Flight Delay: United Jet Turns Back After Dramatic Engine Scare

Common flight maneuvers that might feel unsettling but are normal

Here are three surprising flight maneuvers that feel dangerous but are completely safe.

A United Airlines flight from Denver to Edmonton, Canada had to return to Denver shortly after takeoff Sunday after a possible wildlife strike.

Video on social media shows flashes inside the cabin that appear to be caused by flames coming from the right engine.

United confirmed the incident in a statement to USA TODAY.

"On Sunday, our flight from Denver to Edmonton (UA2325) returned safely to Denver to address a possible wildlife strike. The aircraft returned to the gate, and we lined up a new aircraft to get our customers on their way," the statement said.

According to the airline, the flight was operated by a Boeing 737-800. There were 153 passengers and eight crewmembers aboard.

Pilots regularly train for wildlife strikes, which are common hazards at many airports.

Zach Wichter is a travel reporter and writes the Cruising Altitude column for USA TODAY. He is based in New York and you can reach him at zwichter@usatoday.com.