XJT Aircraft Receives Engine Fire Alert

An ExpressJet charter operation was forced to make an emergency landing after indicators showed an engine fire. The aircraft en route to Tampa was carrying the University of Louisville basketball team when it was forced to return to Louisville after about 15 minutes of flight. The 41 passengers were unaware of the problem until the pilot explained after landing. They deplaned without injury.
Spokesperson Kristy Nicholas said maintenance technicians determined the Embraer 145 had no fire after the aircraft was met by airport fire equipment. The incident occurred just after take off about 4 pm Monday when the plane was at about 5,000 feet.