A pedestrian was fatally struck by a Frontier Airlines plane taking off from Denver International Airport for Los Angeles on Friday night. The incident occurred around 11:19 p.m. when the person, who has not been identified, crossed the runway and was hit by the Airbus A321. The plane’s pilot reported an engine fire after the collision.
The plane, which had 224 passengers and seven crew members on board, canceled takeoff and stopped on the runway. Passengers were evacuated using slides and bussed back to the terminal, with 12 people reporting minor injuries and five being transported to local hospitals. The majority of passengers have since departed Denver on a new flight.
Airport Security and Investigation
The incident is under investigation by the National Transportation Safety Board, which is coordinating with the Federal Aviation Administration, Denver airport operations, and local law enforcement to collect information. The cause of the incident, including the engine fire, remains undetermined. The airport’s fenceline is intact, and the person is not believed to be an airport employee.
Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy referred to the person as a “trespasser” and emphasized the importance of airport security. The runway where the collision occurred reopened just before 11 a.m. local time on Saturday. The incident has raised concerns about airport safety and the potential risks of trespassing on airport property.
Reactions and Implications
The incident has sparked a reaction from authorities, with Duffy stating that “no one should EVER trespass on an airport.” The investigation is ongoing, and it is unclear what measures will be taken to prevent similar incidents in the future. The incident has also raised questions about the effectiveness of airport security measures and the potential consequences of trespassing on airport property.
The incident is a reminder of the importance of airport safety and security, and the need for effective measures to prevent trespassing and other potential risks. As the investigation continues, it is likely that there will be a renewed focus on airport security and the measures in place to protect passengers and staff.
