An American Airlines flight departing for Phoenix, AZ made a precautionary return to St Louis, MO after reporting fumes in the cabin on 12 September 2025.
American Airlines flight AA2574 had conducted a departure from runway 12R St Louis Lambert International Airport (STL).
The aircraft, a Boeing 737-800, was performing a scheduled service bound for Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX).
American Airlines AA2574 St. Louis-Phoenix
During the initial climb after takeoff, flight crew reported the presence of fumes in the cabin. As a result a direct return to the departure airport was requested.
Flight crew terminated the climb procedure below 10,000 feet, before conducting a direct return. The aircraft landed without further incident on runway 12R St Louis Lambert International Airport, just under 30 minutes after its initial departure.
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) issued a confirming statement following the takeoff incident.
“American Airlines Flight 2574 safely returned to St. Louis Lambert International Airport around 8:10 a.m. local time Friday, Sept. 12, after the crew reported fumes in the cockpit. The Boeing 737-800 was travelling to Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport.
The aircraft was able to carry out the onwards scheduled service to Phoenix, following a ground delay.
Flight & Aircraft Data
Flight data shows that flight AA2574 had made an on-time departure out of St Louis Lambert International Airport at 7:58 AM local time on 12 September.
Following the takeoff from runway 12R, flight crew terminated the climb procedure at 6000 feet. A direct return to the departure airport was then carried out.
The aircraft conducting the AA2574 service to Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport was a Boeing 737-800, registered N357PV. This is a 7.8 year old narrow body aircraft belonging to the carrier American Airlines.
It has been in operational service with the airline since its initial delivery from the factory in November 2017.
