Laredo airport travelers urged to plan ahead after fatal crash

Laredo International Airport is urging travelers to plan ahead and allow extra time after a fatal crash on Loop 20 disrupted access to the terminal on Wednesday, June 17, 2026.

The airport said road closures and emergency-response activity were affecting the routes passengers use to reach the airport. Flight operations remained on schedule, but officials said the traffic disruption could slow arrivals.

What happened

A private business jet crashed on Loop 20 near Laredo International Airport late Tuesday night, June 16, after reporting mechanical trouble and attempting to divert for an emergency landing. One person died and five others aboard the aircraft were injured.

Local reporting and the Associated Press identified NetJets as the operator. AP reported the aircraft was traveling from San Jose del Cabo, Mexico, to Austin, Texas, before the diversion attempt.

Airport impact

The crash scene was on a roadway near the airport, not on a runway, and the airport said flights were still operating normally. The immediate problem for travelers was access: closures, emergency vehicles and investigation activity were affecting travel to and from the terminal.

The Laredo Morning Times reported that motorists should use alternate routes and contact airlines for flight-specific updates.

Investigation and response

The FAA and NTSB have opened an investigation into the crash. Local reporting said five police officers were treated for smoke inhalation after helping with the rescue effort.

The timeline of when Loop 20 and nearby access roads will fully reopen remained unclear as of Wednesday afternoon.

Travelers headed to Laredo International Airport should leave extra time, check airline alerts and watch for city or airport updates on road conditions.