Worker Struck and Killed by Airplane Tug at Charlotte Airport

January 29, 2025

Police and federal safety crews are investigating after an airport vehicle struck and killed a 66-year-old worker at Charlotte Douglas International Airport this week.

News sites reported that emergency personnel responded Monday morning to the accident, in which an American Airlines airplane tug vehicle ran over or hit the worker on the tarmac. Details and the man’s name were not immediately released, The Charlotte Observer noted. Investigators from the Occupational Safety and Health Administration, along with Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police are looking into the tragedy.

“We are devastated by the accident involving a team member at Charlotte Douglas International Airport,” American Airlines said in a statement to USA Today. “Our thoughts and prayers are with the family and our local team members. We are focused on ensuring that all involved have the support they need during this difficult time.”

Airport and airliner repair work can be hazardous, according to reports. In August, two Delta Air Lines maintenance workers were killed while an airplane tire exploded at a maintenance shop at the Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport in Atlanta. Read more here.

Photo: A 2024 shot of Charlotte Douglas International Airport (AP Photo/Erik Verduzco)

Topics Aviation

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