Passenger Reportedly Claims He Had to Alert Southwest Pilot They’d Hit Another Plane on Tarmac

Two Southwest Airlines aircraft were involved in a collision at Rhode Island’s T.F. Green Airport, leading to the cancellation of both flights and prompting an investigation by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). The incident occurred on Thursday evening, around 10:45 PM local time, when the wing of Flight 3515 made contact with the tail of Flight 3409 as the latter was pushing back onto the taxiway.

Passengers on Flight 3515 reported that they had to alert the flight crew after the collision occurred while the planes were taxiing. One passenger recounted being seated at a window when he noticed the proximity of his aircraft to another. While he initially believed a collision was unlikely, he was alarmed when contact was made. He stated that it took multiple passengers shouting to get the attention of the crew, who seemed unaware of the incident at first.

Following the incident, both aircraft returned to their respective gates, and all passengers were deplaned safely. The FAA has confirmed their intention to investigate the circumstances surrounding the collision. In a subsequent statement, Southwest Airlines expressed concern for the passengers involved, stating that they had been “reaccommodated” onto alternative flights.

FlightAware data indicates that Flight 3515, which was intended to fly to Washington D.C., was cancelled as a result of the incident, with a new departure scheduled for the following evening. Similarly, Flight 3409, destined for Chicago, also faced cancellation and is expected to resume service shortly.

Southwest Airlines released a public statement, conveying their commitment to safety. The airline noted: “We are aware of an incident involving two of our aircraft at Rhode Island T.F. Green International Airport. We are investigating further and will be thoroughly inspecting the two aircraft. Nothing is more important to Southwest Airlines than the safety of our employees and our customers.”

Collisions of this nature, where aircraft make contact on the ground, are relatively uncommon but not unheard of in the aviation industry. In May, two United Airlines jets were involved in a similar incident at San Francisco International Airport, while a less than a month prior, two planes clipped wings at Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport in Washington D.C.

Safety protocols for taxiing aircraft are typically well established, yet incidents like these highlight the complexities of airport operations. The FAA’s involvement underscores the need for a thorough review of the events leading up to this collision, aiming to identify any lapses in standard procedures.

Passengers have expressed relief at their safety following the incident but have highlighted a need for improved communication from airline staff during such emergencies. Many feel that better procedures could help prevent confusion in moments of unexpected disruptions.

As the investigation unfolds, both the FAA and Southwest Airlines will likely release further information regarding the cause of the collision and any necessary measures that may be implemented to enhance safety and operational protocols moving forward.