A serious ground collision between two United Airlines aircraft at San Francisco International Airport (SFO) has prompted an urgent investigation by US aviation authorities. The alarming incident, which could have had catastrophic consequences, occurred not in the air but on the busy airport tarmac.
The Moment of Impact
According to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), the collision happened when a United Airlines Boeing 757, waiting to push back from its gate with 189 passengers on board, had its wingtip strike the tail of an empty, parked Boeing 787 Dreamliner. The force of the impact was significant enough to cause visible damage to both aircraft, grounding them immediately.
Immediate Aftermath and Response
Passengers aboard the 757 experienced a sudden jolt, followed by the announcement that their flight to Osaka, Japan, was cancelled. Emergency protocols were swiftly enacted. All passengers were safely deplaned via air stairs onto the tarmac and escorted back to the terminal, a clear indication of the seriousness with which the crew treated the event.
Airport operations were temporarily disrupted as safety crews assessed the damage and ensured there were no fuel leaks or other immediate hazards. The involved aircraft, two key wide-body jets in United's fleet, were taken out of service for thorough inspection and repairs.
FAA Launches Full Investigation
The FAA has confirmed it is investigating the cause of the collision. Early reports suggest the incident is a 'runway incursion' – a term used by aviation regulators to describe any unauthorised presence on a runway or taxiway that creates a collision risk. This event will likely scrutinise ground control procedures and pilot communication at one of America's busiest international hubs.
A Pattern of Concerns for United Airlines?
This incident adds to a string of recent safety mishaps for United Airlines, putting the carrier under increased scrutiny. While no injuries were reported, the event raises critical questions about operational protocols and ground handling safety. The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) may also join the investigation given the potential implications for national aviation safety standards.
The aviation community and the public will be awaiting the findings of the investigation, which will aim to prevent such a frightening near-miss from happening again.
