Particle.news

Download on the App Store

EMAS Stops United Express Jet After Runway Overrun in Heavy Rain at Roanoke

The incident highlights Roanoke’s status as Virginia’s only airport with an EMAS.

Overview

  • CommuteAir Flight 4339, an Embraer 145 from Washington Dulles, landed long at Roanoke around 9:18–10 p.m.
  • The aircraft, tail number N21129, exited the paved runway and entered the arrestor bed after insufficient stopping distance, police said.
  • All 50 passengers and three crew were unhurt, evacuated by bus to the terminal, and released by law enforcement before midnight.
  • The EMAS, upgraded in 2024, performed as intended, according to the airport, with aircraft damage still listed as unknown by the FAA.
  • The FAA and NTSB have opened investigations, and airport operations resumed Thursday morning after temporary closures and delays.