On August 16, 2025, a Frontier Airlines Airbus A320neo (tail number N365FR) was rendered temporarily unserviceable at Charlotte Douglas International Airport after a ground air-conditioning hose was pulled into the aircraft’s engine during pre-departure procedures. The incident occurred as the plane prepared for flight F93134 to New York-LaGuardia, causing a nearly nine-hour delay but no injuries.

The hose, used to regulate cabin temperature during boarding, was reportedly placed too close to the left engine, which had been powered on. The CFM LEAP-1A26 engine’s strong suction ingested the hose, damaging it and prompting an immediate engine shutdown and maintenance inspection. The aircraft had just arrived from Philadelphia as flight F92387.

Frontier swiftly arranged a replacement aircraft, and all passengers eventually departed safely. The airline emphasized its safety-first approach and committed to full inspections before returning the damaged jet to service.

The event sparked conversations around ramp safety, illustrating the importance of strict adherence to engine start protocols and equipment placement rules. While disruptive, the mishap ultimately underscored the effectiveness of safety procedures, with rapid crew response preventing injury and averting further damage.

As aviation remains the safest travel mode, incidents like this serve as reminders—and learning opportunities—to keep improving ramp operations.