Sayart.net - Small Aircraft Slides Off Runway at Portland International Jetport, Pilot Uninjured

A small aircraft veered off the runway at Portland International Jetport on Wednesday afternoon, resulting in a temporary closure of airport operations before normal activities resumed. The incident occurred at approximately 12:25 p.m. when the single-engine plane departed from the designated runway surface after completing its landing approach. According to Zachary Sundquist, Assistant Director of the Portland International Jetport, the aircraft traveled more than 300 feet beyond the runway's edge before coming to a complete stop in a grassy area adjacent to the tarmac. The sole occupant of the aircraft, who was piloting the plane, sustained no injuries during the incident and was able to exit the aircraft safely without requiring medical assistance. Emergency response teams and airport operations personnel quickly responded to the scene to assess the situation and ensure the safety of all involved. The runway was temporarily shut down for approximately 25 minutes while authorities conducted their evaluation and coordinated the aircraft's removal from the grassy area. During this brief closure, airport officials worked to minimize disruption to scheduled commercial flights and other airport operations. Following the completion of safety protocols and the securing of the aircraft, normal runway operations were restored, and the jetport resumed its regular flight schedule. The Federal Aviation Administration has been notified of the incident, which is standard procedure for all runway excursions at commercial airports. Airport officials have not released additional details about the type of aircraft involved or the circumstances that led to the runway departure, as the investigation into the incident continues. The Portland International Jetport serves as Maine's primary commercial airport, handling both passenger and cargo flights throughout the year. While runway excursions are relatively uncommon, airport emergency response teams regularly train for such scenarios to ensure quick and effective responses when incidents occur.