Daijiworld Media Network – Denver

Denver, May 9: A Frontier Airlines flight departing from Denver International Airport struck a pedestrian on the runway during takeoff late Friday night, airport authorities and the airline confirmed.

The incident involved Frontier Flight 4345 bound for Los Angeles International Airport. According to airport officials, the aircraft reported hitting a pedestrian at around 11:19 p.m. local time, following which an engine fire broke out and was later extinguished.

Authorities have not yet released details about the identity or condition of the pedestrian. It also remains unclear whether the engine fire was directly linked to the collision.

The aircraft, an Airbus A321 carrying 224 passengers and seven crew members, was evacuated using emergency slides after smoke reportedly filled the cabin.

“The aircraft reportedly struck a pedestrian on the runway during takeoff. Smoke was reported in the cabin and the pilots aborted takeoff,” Frontier Airlines said in a statement.

“We are deeply saddened by this event,” the airline added.

Videos shared on social media by passengers appeared to capture the moment of impact during takeoff. A loud crashing sound was reportedly heard inside the aircraft, followed by panic among passengers.

Additional footage recorded during evacuation appeared to show damage to the aircraft’s engine blades.

Emergency response teams rushed to the scene and passengers were transported back to the terminal by buses, airport officials said.

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) confirmed that an investigation into the incident has been launched.

Airport authorities also stated that runway 17L was temporarily shut down following the incident and that the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) had been informed.