Passengers were evacuated after a Frontier Airlines aircraft struck a person during takeoff at Denver International Airport.
A Frontier Airlines plane struck and killed a person on a runway at Denver International Airport late Friday night, prompting an emergency evacuation and federal investigation.
According to airport authorities, the incident happened shortly before takeoff as the flight was preparing to depart Denver for Los Angeles International Airport. Officials said the individual had breached airport security, climbed over a perimeter fence, and entered the runway area before being hit by the aircraft.
The airline confirmed that all 224 passengers and crew members onboard were safely evacuated using inflatable emergency slides after smoke was seen inside the cabin. Authorities said the collision also caused a brief engine fire, which was quickly extinguished by the Denver Fire Department.
Audio from air traffic control captured the pilot informing the control tower that the aircraft had hit someone on the runway. The pilot also reported an engine fire moments after receiving clearance for takeoff.
US Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy said the aircraft was moving at a “high speed” when the incident occurred. He also stressed that no one should illegally enter airport grounds or active runways.
Airport officials said the victim has not yet been identified and is not believed to be an airport employee. Investigators later confirmed that the airport’s perimeter fence remained intact despite the security breach.
Twelve passengers reportedly sustained minor injuries during the evacuation, while five were taken to nearby hospitals for treatment. Most passengers were later rebooked onto another Frontier Airlines flight.
The affected runway remains closed as the Federal Aviation Administration and the National Transportation Safety Board continue investigations into the deadly incident.
Airport officials and Frontier Airlines both expressed condolences following the tragedy.
