SAN FRANCISCO – A workplace accident at San Francisco International Airport (SFO) claimed the life of a 28-year-old ground handler on Sunday evening, prompting federal investigations into airport safety protocols.
The victim was an employee of dnata (Dubai National Air Travel Agency), a global provider of aircraft ground handling and cargo services.
Details of the Incident
The accident occurred at approximately 7:00 p.m. on Sunday, January 18, 2026. According to SFO spokesperson Doug Yakel, Lacayanga was operating a towing vehicle on a service road between Terminal 3 and Boarding Area G in the International Terminal.
Emergency responders from the San Francisco Fire Department arrived at the scene to find the young man trapped beneath a cargo pallet. Despite life-saving efforts, he was pronounced dead at the scene. Authorities confirmed that no other vehicles were involved in the incident, which is being classified as a “solo vehicle” industrial accident.
Investigation Underway
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) and the San Mateo County Sheriff’s Office have launched investigations to determine the exact cause of the tragedy. Investigators are expected to review equipment maintenance records, employee training logs, and safety footage from the tarmac.
While official causes remain under review, preliminary reports suggest the investigation will focus on how the worker became pinned by the cargo he was transporting.
Tributes and Support
In a statement released on Monday, dnata expressed deep “sadness and shock” over the loss of their team member.
“Our heartfelt condolences go out to his family, friends, and colleagues,” a company spokesperson said. “We are providing all possible support to the family at this difficult time and are working closely with the relevant authorities to understand the circumstances of the incident.”
A GoFundMe page has been established by the victim’s family to help cover funeral and memorial expenses. The fundraiser describes Lacayanga as a hardworking individual whose “tragic loss was unexpected,” leaving his parents and community in mourning.
Airport Safety Scrutiny
The death has renewed discussions regarding the high-risk environment of airport “ramps”—the areas where planes are parked and serviced. Ground handlers often work in high-pressure environments near heavy machinery, moving parts, and jet engines.
Safety advocates noted that while airports have strict regulations, the complexity of cargo towing requires constant vigilance. OSHA’s final report on the incident could take several months to complete.
Operations at SFO were not significantly delayed by the accident, though the service road remained closed for several hours on Sunday night for the initial investigation.
