A tragic incident occurred at Denver International Airport when a trespasser was killed after being sucked into a plane engine as it prepared for takeoff. The unidentified individual reportedly jumped the fence and was struck by a Frontier Airlines aircraft within two minutes, according to airport authorities.
Details of the Incident
The collision happened as Flight 4345 was preparing to depart for Los Angeles International Airport. The impact sparked an engine fire, forcing passengers to evacuate the plane. The pilot informed the control tower that they had struck someone, causing an engine fire, and that smoke had entered the cabin. The aircraft was evacuated on the runway, with passengers using inflatable slides.
Passenger Accounts
Passenger Jacob Anthens posted video footage showing people sliding down with backpacks and a damaged engine. He described the engine exploding and dense smoke. Another video showed passengers calmly evacuating. Twelve passengers suffered minor injuries, and five were taken to hospital.
Investigation and Response
The National Transportation Safety Board launched an investigation and temporarily closed runway 17L. Frontier Airlines stated that only one person was involved and the takeoff was aborted due to smoke. The airline is cooperating with authorities. This incident followed a Delta Air Lines employee fatality at Orlando International Airport the previous day.
