Aircraft-ground vehicle collisions are rare but significant events that highlight the importance of safety protocols in aviation operations.
These incidents often lead to flight disruptions, schedule modifications, and operational challenges. Below is an overview of three major aircraft-ground vehicle incidents in 2024, involving United Airlines, Delta Air Lines, and Air India Express.
1. United Airlines Incident at Miami International Airport (December 26, 2024)
A United Airlines Boeing 737-900ER (Registration: N68453) collided with a catering truck during towing operations at Miami International Airport (MIA). The collision overturned the truck and caused damage to the aircraft.
Incident Highlights:
- The aircraft was being guided to its gate and carried no passengers at the time.
- The flight to Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) was canceled.
- Photographs from the scene revealed the overturned catering truck near the damaged aircraft.
- The catering company’s identity and details of any injuries to truck operators remain undisclosed.
Operational Impact:
- The aircraft’s extended ground time disrupted United’s network.
- Multiple flight reassignments occurred, including replacement aircraft (N75429) for flight UA2644 to Denver, which faced a two-hour delay.
- Subsequent Newark-bound flight UA1386 experienced an 18-hour delay due to operational adjustments.
United Airlines is conducting a comprehensive damage inspection and reviewing ground safety protocols to prevent future incidents.
2. Delta Air Lines Incident at George Town Owen Roberts International Airport (February 9, 2024)
A Delta Air Lines Boeing 737-900ER (Registration: N846DN) sustained wing damage after colliding with a stairs truck at George Town Owen Roberts International Airport during taxi procedures.
Incident Details:
- The collision occurred as the aircraft prepared for flight DL1870 to Atlanta Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport (ATL).
- Social media documentation brought immediate attention to ground safety issues.
Response and Impact:
- Delta Air Lines arranged alternative travel options for affected passengers.
- The airline conducted an investigation and initiated damage assessments for the aircraft.
This incident reinforced the importance of vigilant ground operations and highlighted the potential for disruptions caused by ground vehicle mishandling.
3. Air India Express Incident at Surat International Airport (March 13, 2024)
An Air India Express Boeing 737 collided with a stationary truck at Surat International Airport shortly after landing.
Key Information:
- The aircraft was operating flight IX-172 from Sharjah with over 160 passengers.
- The collision occurred while the aircraft approached its designated bay area.
Immediate Actions:
- Airport officials implemented safety protocols and began investigations into the collision.
- Passengers disembarked safely, and the incident was addressed swiftly to prevent further disruption.
This event underlined the need for careful coordination between ground staff and airport vehicles during aircraft movements.