
A serious accident at Chicago O’Hare Airport leaves a tug driver critically injured after a collision with an Air Wisconsin jet, prompting an investigation into airport safety procedures.
At a Glance
- A 64-year-old tug driver was critically injured when his vehicle collided with an Air Wisconsin jet at O’Hare Airport
- The incident occurred as the plane was taxiing to the gate after landing from Kalamazoo, Michigan
- All passengers were safely evacuated, and airport operations continued with minimal disruption
- The Federal Aviation Administration and local detectives are investigating the cause of the accident
- This is the third aircraft-related accident in the U.S. within four days
Collision on the Tarmac
On a Saturday evening at Chicago O’Hare International Airport, what should have been a routine arrival turned into a harrowing incident. At approximately 6:58 p.m., a United Airlines tug collided with the wing of an Air Wisconsin jet operating as American Eagle Flight 6181 from Kalamazoo, Michigan. The impact caused the tug to overturn, trapping its 64-year-old driver underneath and inflicting severe injuries.
The Chicago Police Department provided details of the accident, stating, “The tug flipped over, pinning the driver underneath it.”
Emergency responders rushed to the scene to extricate the driver, who suffered critical injuries to his head and lower body. He was immediately transported to a local hospital where his condition has since been stabilized.
Fortunately, no injuries were reported among the passengers or crew of the Air Wisconsin flight. All passengers were safely evacuated from the aircraft and transported to the terminal by bus. The incident occurred as the plane was taxiing to the gate after landing, highlighting the potential risks even after a safe touchdown.
United Airlines, the employer of the injured tug driver, issued a statement emphasizing their commitment to the well-being of their employee.
“We are ensuring he receives any necessary support and care,” the airline said in a statement.
Ongoing Investigation and Industry Impact
The Federal Aviation Administration, in conjunction with local detectives, has launched a thorough investigation into the circumstances that led to this accident. This inquiry is crucial not only for determining the cause of this specific incident but also for preventing similar occurrences in the future. The Chicago Department of Aviation reported that the collision did not significantly impact overall airport operations, a testament to O’Hare’s ability to manage unexpected events.
The accident marks the third aircraft-related incident in the United States within a span of just four days. It follows a midair collision over the Potomac River and a medical jet crash in Philadelphia, raising concerns about aviation safety across the country. These events have put the spotlight on the need for rigorous safety protocols and vigilant adherence to procedures in all aspects of aviation operations.
As the investigation unfolds, the incident at O’Hare serves as a stark reminder of the potential hazards present in the complex choreography of airport ground operations. It underscores the critical importance of coordination between ground crew, pilots, and air traffic control to ensure the safety of all personnel and passengers in the bustling environment of one of America’s busiest airports.