Audio captures moment Frontier plane struck pedestrian on runway
Yahoo News
Last updated: May 9, 2026
An audio recording documents the immediate aftermath of a Frontier Airlines flight's collision with a pedestrian during its departure from Denver International Airport on Friday. The recording reveals initial standard communication between the aircraft and air traffic control, followed by the unfolding emergency.
- The audio captures the pilot reporting an "unidentified object" on the runway shortly after takeoff, indicating a potential issue. Air traffic control then responds by halting further departures and initiating a search for the object.
- The situation escalates as the pilot confirms a "loud bang" and expresses concern about a potential strike. Air traffic control acknowledges the report and advises the pilot that the aircraft is clear to continue its flight to its destination.
- Subsequently, emergency services are alerted to the incident, with first responders being directed to the active runway to investigate the reported collision. The nature of the "unidentified object" is clarified as a pedestrian, and the immediate focus shifts to securing the scene and providing assistance.
- The recording highlights the swift coordination between the flight crew and air traffic control in identifying and responding to a critical on-runway event, demonstrating established emergency protocols in aviation.
