NASCAR Crew Flight Aborted After Engine Failure on Route to Mexico City

A chartered flight carrying NASCAR drivers and crew members bound for Mexico City was forced to abort takeoff from Charlotte Douglas International Airport following a reported engine failure. Early reports suggest a bird strike may have caused the incident.

The flight, organized to transport teams to this weekend’s NASCAR Cup Series event at Autódromo Hermanos Rodríguez, came to a sudden halt when passengers heard a loud “boom” shortly after the aircraft began accelerating down the runway.

Ryan Ellis, driver for Alpha Prime Racing in the Xfinity Series, shared updates via social media, stating, “Plane attempted takeoff, plane made a small boom, we are headed back.” He later confirmed that everyone aboard was safe and that emergency crews were present during the plane’s return to the gate.

Motorsports journalist Matt Weaver reported that the failure occurred in the aircraft’s second engine, which may have ingested a bird during takeoff. Weaver noted that fire trucks and emergency response vehicles were on standby, but no injuries were reported.

Logistical Challenges Intensify for International Events

The aborted takeoff has added another layer of complexity to NASCAR’s travel logistics, especially for an international event. While race vehicles and equipment are transported separately, typically through haulers that clear customs in Laredo, Texas, personnel flights are vital for on-time race preparation.

NASCAR officials quickly began coordinating alternate travel arrangements to ensure all crew members and drivers reach Mexico City in time for scheduled activities. As of this writing, a replacement flight has not been publicly confirmed, but reports indicate that a backup plan is already in motion.

Meanwhile, Dale Earnhardt Jr., who is slated to be part of NBC Sports’ coverage team this weekend, also faced delays due to unrelated weather issues. His travel complications were not connected to the engine incident.

Aircraft Safety and Team Protocols

Engine failures, especially on takeoff, are rare but not unheard of, particularly in cases involving bird strikes. NASCAR teams often charter regional aircraft from specialized operators, and crews are well-trained to handle emergency situations swiftly and safely. The professionalism shown by flight staff and NASCAR's contingency planning helped avoid serious disruption.

What Comes Next

With the event in Mexico City representing a key moment on the NASCAR schedule, bringing stock car racing to an international fan base, the stakes for smooth logistics are high. Fortunately, no equipment was affected, and the cars are already en route via ground transport.