A Frontier Airlines aircraft experienced an engine fire upon landing at Denver International Airport on Thursday, and according to reports, the plane also struck a pedestrian on the tarmac. The incident occurred around 8:30 p.m. local time when Flight 2246 from San Diego was arriving at the gate.
Details of the Incident
The Airbus A320neo was taxiing to the gate when the engine fire erupted. Emergency services responded promptly, and the fire was extinguished. Witnesses reported seeing flames and smoke coming from the engine area. The pedestrian, whose identity has not been released, was taken to a hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. The airline confirmed that all 137 passengers and five crew members deplaned safely via the jet bridge.
Response and Investigation
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has launched an investigation into the cause of the engine fire and the collision with the pedestrian. The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has also been notified. Denver International Airport operations were temporarily disrupted, but normal service resumed shortly after the incident.
Frontier Airlines Statement
Frontier Airlines issued a statement expressing concern for the pedestrian and gratitude that no one else was harmed. The airline is cooperating fully with investigators and conducting its own internal review. Passengers on the flight were provided with hotel accommodations and rebooked on alternate flights.
Safety Measures
The incident has raised questions about ground safety protocols at airports. The FAA will review procedures for aircraft movement and pedestrian access on the tarmac. This event highlights the importance of stringent safety measures to prevent such occurrences in the future.
