A Frontier Airlines flight departing from Denver International Airport struck a person on the runway late Friday night, triggering an engine fire and emergency evacuation, officials said.
Person Fatally Struck During Takeoff
The incident happened shortly after 11 p.m. on Runway 17L as the aircraft prepared to depart for Los Angeles. According to officials, the individual had breached airport security, climbed a perimeter fence, and ran onto the runway before being hit by the plane during takeoff.
Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy said the victim was at least partially pulled into one of the aircraft’s engines, causing a brief fire.
The flight was carrying 224 passengers and seven crew members.
Smoke Reported Inside Aircraft
Air traffic control audio revealed pilots reported an engine fire and smoke inside the plane immediately after the collision. Emergency crews responded quickly, and passengers were evacuated from the aircraft on the runway.
Preliminary reports indicate 12 people suffered injuries, while five were transported to local hospitals, officials said.
Investigation Underway
National Transportation Safety Board investigators have been notified, and Runway 17L remains closed while authorities examine the incident.
Airport officials said emergency operations and the investigation are ongoing. Security teams were also inspecting the airport’s perimeter fencing Saturday morning to determine how the individual accessed the runway.
Frontier Airlines said it is cooperating with investigators alongside airport officials and federal agencies.
“We are deeply saddened by this event,” the airline said in a statement.
The investigation includes support from the Federal Aviation Administration and the Transportation Security Administration.
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