American Airlines passengers brace for emergency landing

Scottsdale resident Steve Ramsthel recorded the incident on his phone.

"You will be given instructions on when to brace," said a flight attendant. "Remain in that position until the aircraft comes to a complete stop."

An airline spokesperson confirmed to ABC15 a fan issue prompted the emergency landing.

"It wasn't overwhelming, but you could smell the smoke," said Ramsthel.

Ramsthel, who is a certified pilot himself, said the captain and flight attendants handled the situation very professionally.

He said even his fellow passengers remained calm.