Southwest Airlines flight to Houston returns to Denver due to mechanical issue

After a mechanical problem, a Southwest Airlines flight that was scheduled to arrive in Houston had to do a U-turn and return to Denver International Airport.

After encountering a technical problem, Southwest Flight 3695 returned to Denver International Airport on Sunday morning and touched down safely, according to airline officials. After the problem was reported, the aircraft took off from DIA at 7:39 a.m. and looped around before landing at 8:14 a.m. According to reports, the aircraft is a Boeing 737.

Three hours later than expected, passengers arrived in Houston Hobby. The airline expressed regret for any inconvenience caused, and maintenance crews were examining the aircraft.

This is the second instance in which a Southwest Airlines flight's equipment has reportedly malfunctioned in recent days. At Lubbock Preston Smith International Airport on Thursday, an engine fire was reported just prior to takeoff. The FAA is looking into the incident.