DENVER, CO – A tragic and unusual incident occurred at Denver International Airport (DIA) late Friday night when a Frontier Airlines plane struck a person on the runway during its departure roll.
The Incident at Takeoff
Frontier Airlines Flight 1151, an Airbus A321 bound for Los Angeles, was preparing for takeoff around 10:15 p.m. when the collision happened. According to airline officials, a person was walking on the active runway at the time of the strike.
Immediately following the impact, air traffic control recordings captured the pilot reporting an engine fire and smoke entering the cabin. The aircraft was brought to a halt on the runway, and an emergency evacuation was ordered.
Emergency Evacuation
There were 224 passengers and seven crew members on board. Out of an abundance of caution due to the smoke and engine fire, passengers were forced to evacuate the aircraft using the emergency slides directly onto the tarmac.
Frontier Airlines released a statement confirming the evacuation and expressing deep sadness over the event. “We are investigating this incident and gathering more information in coordination with the airport and other safety authorities,” the statement read.
Flight Disruptions
While the flight was originally scheduled to land at Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) just after midnight, the aircraft remained grounded in Denver for investigation. The flight has since been rescheduled, and passengers are being assisted by the airline.
Authorities have not yet released the identity of the person struck or explained how they gained access to the restricted runway area. The investigation by Denver Police and airport safety officials is ongoing.
