Panthers Flight Accident After Game
- The Carolina Panthers were on a Delta Air Lines flight returning to North Carolina when the plane slid off the runway.
- This incident occurred early Friday after the team's first preseason game.
- Fortunately, there were no reported injuries among the passengers.
A Delta Air Lines flight carrying the Carolina Panthers slid off the runway early Friday morning upon landing in Charlotte, North Carolina. The incident occurred shortly after the team returned from their first preseason game against the New England Patriots, which took place in Foxborough, Massachusetts. The flight, arriving from Providence, Rhode Island, was transporting players, coaches, and staff members of the Panthers organization. Delta Air Lines confirmed that all 188 passengers on board were unharmed. In a statement, the airline explained that the right main gear of flight Delta 8860 exited the taxiway at Charlotte Douglas International Airport following a normal arrival. Passengers were safely deplaned and transported to the terminal, with Delta expressing apologies for the inconvenience caused by the incident. The Panthers were returning to North Carolina after a disappointing 17-3 loss to the Patriots, where most of the team's starters did not participate. Notably, quarterback Bryce Young, the first overall pick in the 2023 NFL Draft, did not play in the game. Only three starters—wide receiver Jonathan Mingo, outside linebacker DJ Johnson, and cornerback Dane Jackson—saw action during the match. Head coach Dave Canales, in his first game with the Panthers, emphasized the importance of the opportunity for rookies and less experienced players to showcase their skills. He noted the effort and determination displayed by the team, highlighting the game as a valuable experience for the players.