Family Sues Salt Lake City Airport Over Fatal Airbus A220 Engine Incident

The family of Kyler Efinger has filed a wrongful death lawsuit against Salt Lake City. Efinger, 30, died on January 1, 2024, after an incident at the Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC). He was a ticketed passenger for a Delta Air Lines flight. The suit alleges negligence in airport design and emergency response protocols.

Incident and Allegations

Efinger was reportedly experiencing a manic episode. He left the secure terminal area through an emergency exit door. The lawsuit claims this door lacked adequate emergency exit safeguards. He then accessed the tarmac and walked nearly a mile. Efinger approached a Delta Air Lines Airbus A220-100 aircraft. The plane was on a deicing pad preparing to taxi. He crawled into the engine cowling of the aircraft.

The family's lawsuit points to a failure in communication. It alleges airport personnel did not promptly notify air traffic control. Pilots and ground crew were reportedly not warned of a disoriented person on the tarmac. This delay hindered a swift and effective emergency response. Officers were initially sent to the wrong gate location. The complaint states Efinger would have been found alive with a faster response.

Aviation Safety and Security Implications

This tragic event highlights critical issues in airport security breach negligence. It raises questions about the design of emergency exit systems. Such systems must prevent unauthorized access to the airfield. Airports operate under strict security guidelines from the FAA and TSA. These rules govern perimeter control and emergency response coordination. The case also underscores the need for better staff training. Training should cover responding to passengers experiencing a mental health crisis airport event.

Industry Review

The incident generated significant international attention. It prompted a broader review of aviation safety protocols in the United States. Airport security plans (ASPs) are regularly inspected by the TSA. This lawsuit seeks not only damages but also meaningful reforms. It aims to prevent similar fatal tragedies in the future. The outcome may influence future airport design and crisis response standards globally.

• The lawsuit seeks damages exceeding $300,000.
• The aircraft was a Delta Air Lines Airbus A220-100.
• The incident occurred on January 1, 2024, at SLC.

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