by Telluride, Colorado – A private business jet carrying three people was violently pushed off a runway Tuesday afternoon after a powerful gust of wind struck the aircraft just moments after landing at Telluride Regional Airport, according to local authorities.
The San Miguel County Sheriff’s Office said the jet, which had two pilots and one passenger onboard, lost directional control around 12:15 p.m. as it touched down in western Colorado. The aircraft skidded approximately 300 yards off the runway, suffering significant damage before coming to rest.
Plane Lost Control Immediately After Touchdown
Officials said the incident occurred when a sudden, strong crosswind slammed into the side of the aircraft as its wheels made contact with the runway.
“The pilot told deputies that just after the plane’s wheels touched down, a strong, gusting crosswind hit the plane’s profile, shoving it off the runway,” the sheriff’s office said in a statement posted on Facebook.
The aircraft slid off the paved surface and came to rest with its landing gear collapsed, according to authorities.
FAA Confirms Aircraft Sustained Substantial Damage
The Federal Aviation Administration later identified the aircraft as a midsize Cessna 750, a jet commonly used for long-range business and corporate travel.
The FAA said the plane sustained substantial damage, beginning with the collapse of its left landing gear during landing. The sheriff’s office added that the nose wheel and one wing were also damaged as the jet slid across the ground.
Photos released by officials show the aircraft resting on snow-dusted grass near the runway at the mountainous airport, with one wing appearing to touch the ground, indicating possible structural or gear failure during the incident.
No Injuries Reported Among Crew or Passenger
Despite the severity of the crash, authorities said no injuries were reported. Telluride fire crews responded to the scene and examined all occupants.
“All occupants were able to self-extricate, and there are no reported injuries,” the sheriff’s office said.
Officials also confirmed there was no fire or smoke following the incident, though the airport was temporarily closed after the crash.
Ownership and Federal Investigation
According to the FAA’s aircraft registry, the Cessna 750 is owned by Mach .92 Leasing LLC, based in Raleigh, North Carolina.
Federal investigators from the National Transportation Safety Board and the FAA are expected to examine the incident to determine the precise cause, including weather conditions and runway factors at the time of landing.
Officials have not released a timeline for reopening the airport or completing the investigation.
