Person dies after being ‘hit’ by Frontier Airlines plane during take off at major airport | World | News

One person tragically lost his life after being struck by a plane taking off from the runway at a major international airport. A Frontier Airlines plane hit a man believed to be walking on the runway at Denver International Airport on Friday night.

The incident occurred around 11:19 p.m. Friday, when Frontier Flight 4345 reported hitting a pedestrian during takeoff, according to a statement from Denver International Airport. There were 231 people on board. At least one passenger suffered minor injuries and everyone on board is currently being evaluated under standard post-evacuation procedure. ABC News.

Frontier Airlines released a statement: “While Flight 4345 was taking off from Denver International Airport to Los Angeles International Airport this evening, it was reported that the aircraft struck a pedestrian on the runway during takeoff.

“After reporting smoke in the cabin, the pilots canceled the takeoff. The passengers were then evacuated safely through slides as a precaution.

“The Airbus A321 was carrying 224 passengers and 7 crew members. We are investigating this incident and gathering more information in coordination with the airport and other security authorities. We are deeply saddened by this incident.”

Passengers got off the plane on the runway using emergency slides before being transported to the terminals by emergency teams.

Air traffic control audio released by ATC.com captured the crew alerting the tower to the situation. In the recording, the pilot says: “Tower, Border 4345, we are standing on the runway… we hit someone… there is a fire in the engine.”

When asked about the number of people on the plane, the pilot answers: “There are 231 people on board… There was one person walking on the runway.” A few minutes later, the pilot reported that conditions were deteriorating and evacuation was necessary.

The pilot said, “There is smoke on the plane, we will evacuate the runway.”