On August 16, 2025, a routine departure at Charlotte Douglas International Airport turned into an unexpected disruption when a Frontier Airlines Airbus A320 experienced engine damage during ground operations. The incident, which involved a ground service hose being sucked into one of

the aircraft’s engines, led to significant delays for passengers and attracted attention from aviation enthusiasts and safety professionals alike. While the event caused a nearly nine-hour delay for travelers heading to New York, no injuries were reported, and safety protocols ensured that the situation was managed without escalating further.

As part of standard pre-departure procedures, external ground support equipment, including an air-conditioning hose, was connected to the aircraft. These hoses help regulate cabin temperature while the plane is parked, ensuring passengers board comfortably without relying

solely on onboard systems. However, during the course of ground operations, the powerful suction generated by the aircraft’s CFMI LEAP-1A26 engine reportedly pulled the hose into the intake. Within seconds, the hose was shredded, leaving debris and raising immediate concerns about potential engine damage. Read more below