Stowaway found dead in plane’s landing gear
The body of a suspected stowaway was found in the landing gear of an American Airlines aircraft shortly after landing at Charlotte Douglas International Airport
The flight had arrived from Europe.
The body was found when maintenance crews were checking the jet, according to the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department.
It was pronounced dead at the scene and a death investigation is underway. “We are working with law enforcement on its investigation,” American Airlines said.
The individual hasn’t been named yet.
“CLT Airport is aware of the tragic discovery involving a deceased individual found in the landing gear of an American Airlines aircraft this morning,” an airport spokesperson said.
Flight operations at the airport were running as normal.
While stowaways have survived even long haul flights hiding in landing gear, more than three-quarters of attempts end in death according to FAA data.
TravelMole Editorial Team
Editor for TravelMole North America and Asia pacific regions. Ray is a highly experienced (15+ years) skilled journalist and editor predominantly in travel, hospitality and lifestyle working with a huge number of major market-leading brands. He has also cover in-depth news, interviews and features in general business, finance, tech and geopolitical issues for a select few major news outlets and publishers.
Have your say Cancel reply
Subscribe/Login to Travel Mole Newsletter
Travel Mole Newsletter is a subscriber only travel trade news publication. If you are receiving this message, simply enter your email address to sign in or register if you are not. In order to display the B2B travel content that meets your business needs, we need to know who are and what are your business needs. ITR is free to our subscribers.

































Airlines suspend Madagascar services following unrest and army revolt
Qatar Airways offers flexible payment options for European travellers
TAP Air Portugal to operate 29 flights due to strike on December 11
Air Mauritius reduces frequencies to Europe and Asia for the holiday season
Airbnb eyes a loyalty program but details remain under wraps