A sudden, violent gust of wind transformed a routine landing into a harrowing ordeal at Telluride Regional Airport in western Colorado on Tuesday. A private business jet, carrying two pilots and one passenger, was violently forced off the runway, a testament to the unpredictable power of mountain weather.
The aircraft, a midsize Cessna 750, touched down around 12:15 p.m. when a brutal crosswind slammed into its side. The pilot reported the force immediately robbed him of control, sending the jet skidding uncontrollably across the terrain.
Authorities estimate the plane traveled roughly 300 yards before coming to a stop, resting on snow-dusted grass well beyond the paved runway. The impact was significant, resulting in a collapse of the left landing gear and substantial damage to the nose wheel and one of the wings.
Images from the scene reveal the aircraft listing precariously, one wing touching the ground – a stark visual of the force it endured. The remote, mountainous location added to the drama of the situation.
Remarkably, despite the violent departure from the runway and the extensive damage to the aircraft, all three occupants were able to safely exit the plane without injury. Telluride fire crews quickly arrived to assess the passenger and crew, confirming no medical attention was needed.
While no fire or smoke erupted from the damaged jet, the incident necessitated the temporary closure of the airport. The focus immediately shifted to securing the scene and initiating a thorough investigation.
Federal investigators from the National Transportation Safety Board and the FAA are now meticulously examining the circumstances surrounding the incident. Their work will center on understanding the precise nature of the wind conditions and the factors that contributed to the loss of control.
The aircraft is registered to Mach .92 Leasing LLC, based in Raleigh, North Carolina, but the investigation will delve far beyond ownership, seeking to uncover every detail of this dramatic event and prevent similar occurrences in the future.
