Donnie Wahlberg Reflects on Plane Incident and Gratitude

Donnie Wahlberg remains surprised that New Kids on the Block Day continues to be celebrated. Former Massachusetts governor Michael Dukakis declared April 24 as the official day for the band decades ago. Wahlberg expressed thanks to God and the pilots for preventing a potential disaster when a private jet with him and seven others skidded off a runway at Harry Reid International Airport in Las Vegas.

On Sunday, Wahlberg had just performed with the band during their Las Vegas residency’s final show. He took to social media to describe the incident and thank the pilots and God for everyone’s safety. “Receiving many messages of concern about our flight’s failed departure from Las Vegas this morning,” he wrote, appreciating the concerns and well wishes.

“It was a rather intense few moments, feeling like long minutes,” Wahlberg explained, stating that it was him and his friends on board.

A video recorded after the event showed Wahlberg explaining that the plane never became airborne. “We’re all okay. I’m okay,” he stated. “We attempted takeoff, didn’t get in the air, and ran out of runway.” Wahlberg, who performed with his wife Jenny McCarthy the night before, stressed, “The pilots saved our lives. God shielded us. We narrowly avoided multiple obstacles.”

Wahlberg noted the plane barely missed trucks and equipment as it skidded. “God is good,” he remarked. “I prayed, saw we weren’t taking off, but I’m thankful and safe today. Praise Jesus.”

He praised both the pilots and emergency personnel on Instagram. “Thanks to God and our pilots who expertly ensured our safety,” Wahlberg wrote. “While the plane didn’t fare well, we are unharmed.” He also thanked emergency services in Las Vegas.

Jenny McCarthy reacted in the comments: “God is so good!”

Harry Reid International Airport confirmed the event. Spokesperson Monika Bertaki told the Associated Press that the aircraft skidded off runway 1L at around 11 a.m., hitting the airport’s fence. “There were no injuries reported,” the airport stated. Inspections led to the temporary closure of runways 1R and 1L, warning travelers of potential delays. An update later confirmed both runways reopened post-inspection.

An air traffic control recording on TikTok captured a voice saying, “Aborting. Aborting,” followed by an air traffic controller confirming emergency vehicles were on their way.

Wahlberg’s representative did not immediately comment further. Christina Dugan Ramirez, an entertainment journalist with extensive experience, reported these details for Fox News Digital.