A Dassault Falcon 50 private business jet skidded off Runway 1L at Las Vegas Harry Reid International Airport on Sunday, October 18, 2026, at approximately 11 a.m. local time. The aircraft crashed through the airport’s perimeter fence during an attempted takeoff.
Emergency Response and Runway Closures
Following the incident, emergency personnel responded promptly and secured the scene. Runways 1L and 1R were closed for safety inspections. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) imposed a ground stop at the airport starting at 10:46 a.m. Pacific Time to manage reduced runway capacity and emergency procedures. The initial ground stop was scheduled to end by 12:15 p.m. but was
extended as inspections continued.
Flight Disruptions and Airport Operations
The runway closures and FAA ground stop resulted in delayed departures ranging from 16 to 30 minutes at Harry Reid International Airport. The airport experienced flight disruptions during one of the busiest travel days, impacting arrival and departure schedules. The FAA’s restriction caused incoming flights to hold at their departure points while controllers managed limited runway availability.
Official Statements and Ongoing Investigation
Airport spokesperson Monika Bertaki confirmed no injuries occurred in the incident. Authorities have not disclosed the cause of the runway excursion, and investigations are ongoing. Officials have not determined whether mechanical failure or other factors contributed to the jet
skidding off the runway. The aircraft involved was identified by the Associated Press as a Dassault Falcon 50, a three-engine business jet used for private and corporate travel.
Context of Disruption at Harry Reid International Airport
Harry Reid International Airport serves millions of passengers annually traveling for holidays and major events, and hosts major airlines including Southwest, Delta, American, United, Alaska, Frontier, and international carriers linking Las Vegas with Europe and North America. Although the incident involved a private aircraft, the closure of two runways significantly affected airport operations and flight scheduling on a busy Sunday.
