Lexington, Kentucky, August 28, 2025
News Summary
The Comair Flight 5191 crash, one of Kentucky’s deadliest aviation disasters, took place in 2006, claiming 49 lives. A memorial service marked its 19th anniversary, honoring the victims and emphasizing aviation safety improvements following the tragedy.
Lexington, Kentucky – The Comair Flight 5191 crash stands as one of the deadliest aviation tragedies in Kentucky history. On August 27, 2006, the disaster claimed the lives of 49 individuals, including 47 passengers and 2 crew members, when the aircraft attempted takeoff from the wrong runway at Blue Grass Airport. The only survivor was co-pilot Jim Polehinke, who suffered severe injuries, including brain damage and a leg amputation.
The crash occurred due to a tragic mix-up in runway designation. Instead of taking off from the cleared runway 22, the crew mistakenly utilized runway 26, which was not long enough to accommodate the plane’s takeoff, leading to a crash into a perimeter fence, trees, and surrounding terrain. This disastrous event not only devastated families but also raised crucial questions regarding aviation safety protocols.
In remembrance of the 19th anniversary of the crash, a commemorative service was held at the “Birds in Flight” memorial at the University of Kentucky Arboretum. Attendees included families of the victims, first responders, and other community members, all gathering to honor the lives lost on that fateful day. The youngest victim was just 16 years old, while the oldest was 72.
Following the incident, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) conducted a federal investigation, confirming the runway mix-up that led to the tragedy. This disaster sparked discussions on aviation safety improvements and prompted the FAA to implement significant changes to its procedures and policies to enhance safety in air travel.
In the wake of the crash, the families of the victims worked tirelessly with legal representatives to advocate for aviation safety enhancements. They compiled a comprehensive letter to the FAA outlining necessary improvements aimed at preventing future tragedies. Their efforts were instrumental in pushing for legislative and procedural changes within the aviation industry.
One of the most poignant tributes to the victims is a 17-foot-tall sculpture at the memorial, which symbolizes the 49 individuals lost on that day with 49 silver birds. This artistic expression of remembrance continues to serve as a powerful reminder of the lives impacted by the accident and the ongoing commitment to enhancing safety in aviation.
The legacy of Comair Flight 5191 serves as a crucial element in the narrative of aviation safety, emphasizing the importance of adherence to protocol and the necessity for continuous improvement in air travel practices. As families remember their loved ones, the aviation community reflects on the lessons learned and remains dedicated to preventing similar accidents in the future.
FAQ
- What happened to Comair Flight 5191? The flight crashed on August 27, 2006, at Blue Grass Airport after taking off from the wrong runway, resulting in 49 fatalities.
- How many survivors were there? There was one survivor, co-pilot Jim Polehinke, who sustained significant injuries.
- What was the cause of the crash? The crash was caused by the crew’s mistake in taking off from runway 26 instead of the designated runway 22.
- What memorial exists for the victims? The “Birds in Flight” memorial at the University of Kentucky Arboretum features a sculpture symbolizing the 49 victims.
- What changes were made after the incident? The FAA initiated a federal investigation and implemented safety improvements and procedural changes within the aviation industry.
Key Features of Comair Flight 5191
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Date of Crash | August 27, 2006 |
| Location | Blue Grass Airport, Lexington, Kentucky |
| Total Casualties | 49 fatalities, 1 survivor |
| Cause | Runway mix-up during takeoff |
| Memorial | “Birds in Flight” at the University of Kentucky Arboretum |
| Age Range of Victims | 16 to 72 years old |
| FAA Response | Investigation and safety protocol changes |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- Fox 56 News: 49 Lives Lost in Flight 5191 Crash
- Wikipedia: Comair Flight 5191
- WTVQ: Lexington Marks 19 Years Since Flight 5191 Crash
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Comair Flight 5191
- WYMT: This Day in History – August 27, 2006
Author: STAFF HERE LEXINGTON KY STAFF
The LEXINGTON STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERELexingtonKY.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Lexington, Fayette County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Woodland Art Fair, Crave Food and Music Festival, and Railbird Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like Commerce Lexington and Blue Grass Community Foundation, plus leading businesses in education, manufacturing, and technology that power the local economy such as University of Kentucky, Toyota Motor Manufacturing, and Lexmark. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBowlingGreen.com and HERELouisville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Kentucky's dynamic landscape.
