A critical accident occurred at Chicago’s O’Hare International Airport on Saturday, leaving a driver hospitalized in critical condition after being struck by an airplane wing while driving a tug vehicle. The incident happened around 6:35 p.m. local time when Air Wisconsin Flight 6181, operated by American Airlines, made contact with the United Airlines tug vehicle.
According to authorities, the collision caused the tug vehicle to flip over and pin the driver underneath. The passenger list of the aircraft revealed no injuries among its passengers, who safely exited the plane after landing. However, the pilot’s assistant was hospitalized in critical condition at a local hospital, suffering head and lower body injuries.
The incident occurred during the flight’s approach to gate 24C when the tug vehicle crossed an active taxiway, where it made contact with the aircraft wing. American Airlines expressed concern for customer safety, stating they are reviewing the incident. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) also released a statement saying their team will investigate.
The airport operations were not significantly impacted due to this accident. The investigation into the incident is ongoing, and further updates will be provided as necessary.
Source: https://www.fox32chicago.com/news/accident-ohare-airport-leaves-driver-tug-vehicle-hospitalized