The 66-year-old American Airlines worker died after being hit by a vehicle while working on the runway at Charlotte Douglas International Airport in North Carolina.
The 66-year-old man was on the ramp on the runway at North Carolina's Charlotte Douglas International Airport when he was struck by the vehicle at around 9.30am on Monday, officials said. Medical crews rushed to the scene, but the man was later pronounced dead.
American Airlines described the employee's death as an "accident" and offered their "thoughts and prayers" to their family and airport staff. The ramp (or 'apron') is used to load and unload passengers from the plane, as well as for refuelling, parking, and maintenance, according to the US Federal Aviation Administration.
Police identified the victim as a 66-year-old man, though his name has not yet been released, according to Charlotte local television station WCNC. A statement from Charlotte Douglas International Airport said: "Our deepest condolences go out to the employee's family, friends and colleagues during this difficult time. The airport is working closely with airline and first responder partners in the ongoing investigation and is providing support as needed."
The airport said chaplains would be available to staff at the airport on Tuesday. American Airlines said in a statement: "We are devastated by the accident involving a team member at Charlotte Douglas International Airport. 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."
According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, five workers across the nation died in accidents related to airport operations in 2023. This marked a small increase from the three deaths recorded in 2022.