Frontier jet hits pedestrian, aborts Denver takeoff late
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Denver — A Frontier Airlines Airbus A321 struck a person walking on runway 17L during takeoff at Denver International Airport late Friday, May 8, at about 11:19 p.m. local time, officials said. Flight 4345, bound for Los Angeles, carried 224 passengers and seven crew; pilots aborted takeoff after reporting smoke and an engine fire.
Passengers were evacuated via emergency slides, and the Denver Fire Department extinguished a brief engine fire; at least one passenger reported minor injuries. Denver International Airport closed runway 17L and notified the National Transportation Safety Board; Frontier said the flight was rescheduled for Saturday and authorities are investigating the circumstances of the pedestrian's presence.
More context
Timeline
- 1. May 8, ~11:19 p.m. — Flight 4345 begins takeoff roll on runway 17L at DEN.
- 2. Pilot reports seeing an individual and aborts the takeoff amid smoke and fire reports.
- 3. Denver Fire Department extinguishes a brief engine fire; crew orders evacuation via slides.
- 4. Passengers evacuated and transported to the terminal; at least one minor passenger injury reported.
- 5. Airport closes runway 17L and notifies the NTSB; Frontier coordinates with authorities and reschedules flight for Saturday.
Why it matters
This incident highlights the importance of airport security. It's a reminder to stay vigilant and report any suspicious activity. If you're flying Frontier or through Denver, expect potential delays as investigations continue.
Sources
JQJO Editorial Desk · Human reviewed · AI assisted. Report a correction.
