Update: Allegiant Flight Bound For Los Angeles Was Not Hit By Lightning On Runway Saturday

After approximately 3 hours of investigation, maintenance workers could find no evidence of a lightning strike.

UPDATE:

FARGO, N.D. (KFGO) – A spokesperson for Allegiant Air says after inspection it was determined a jet headed from Fargo to Los Angeles was not hit by lightning during Saturday’s severe weather.

Hilarie Grey told KFGO News there was lightning around the airport and there was a suspected lightning strike as the Airbus taxied back to the terminal as the storm hit.

Grey says there was a “smell” in the aircraft but after approximately 3 hours of investigation, maintenance workers could find no evidence of a lightning strike and the flight departed for its destination.

The National Weather Service reported a peak gust of 81 mph at the airport during the storm.

FARGO, ND — An Allegiant jet was struck by lightning as it prepared for take-off from Hector International Airport on Saturday.

It was taxing down the runway about 12:30 p.m. when a severe thunderstorm approached.

The pilot opted to taxi back to the airport terminal.

That’s when lightning hit the plane’s tail section.

No injuries were reported and the Airbus 320 bound for Los Angeles returned safely to the terminal.

Mechanics spent several hours examining the aircraft on Saturday afternoon.