PR: 13 injured in American Eagle crash

SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico (AP) - An American Eagle flight skidded off a runway Sunday when one of its tires blew out upon touching down at San Juan's main airport, authorities said. At least 13 people were seriously injured.

The incident involving American Eagle Flight 5401 happened at about 2:50 p.m. (1850 GMT) at Luis Munoz Marin International Airport, Port Authority executive director Miguel Soto Lacourt said.

The Super ATR turboprop plane, carrying 22 passengers and four crew members from the west coast city of Mayaguez, was landing when one of the tires blew out, Soto said. The twin-engine plane, which has a capacity for 64 passengers, lost its balance and one of its wings struck the runway.

The pilot did not communicate with the control tower to request help or complain of any trouble prior to landing, Soto said.

The 13 injured, including the pilot and co-pilot, were taken to local hospitals in stable condition, he said. Others were treated at the scene for minor cuts and bruises.

Some of the injured were taken out on stretchers and others wore neck braces.

Ouch! It was very windy over the last few days...
Thankfully no one was seriously hurt.