Rogue gator delays flight at Savannah/Hilton Head airport: ‘He just laid down’
A Delta flight taking off from the Savannah-Hilton Head International Airport was briefly delayed by an alligator resting near the runway, WJCL 22 reports.
The plane’s pilot reported the medium-sized alligator prior to his scheduled takeoff around 6 p.m. on March 20, according to air traffic audio obtained by the station.
“Yeah, he’s about six foot,” the pilot replied after an air traffic controller expressed confusion. “He just laid down.”
Lori Lynah, spokeswoman for the airport, did not immediately respond to a phone call requesting more information on Wednesday.
Alligators have emerged from their monthslong brumation period and are once again making public appearances across the Lowcountry.
Residents who encounter the reptiles in unusual or heavily populated areas are encouraged to report sightings to local wildlife handlers or their state’s department of natural resources.
