Delta Jets Collide at LaGuardia: One Injured in Low-Speed Taxiway Crash

Two Delta Air Lines regional jets collided on a taxiway at LaGuardia Airport in New York. This incident occurred while one aircraft was getting ready to take off for Roanoke, Virginia, and the other was arriving from Charlotte, North Carolina. Thankfully, the injuries were minimal, with just one flight attendant affected.

The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) is investigating the collision. They have sent a team of ten to examine the situation. Flight recorders from both planes have been recovered to aid in the analysis.

Air traffic control had instructed the Roanoke-bound plane to hold its position and yield to the incoming aircraft. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) indicated that the specifics of fault remain unclear. During the collision, the wing of the departing plane clipped the fuselage of the aircraft from North Carolina. The pilot reported damage to the cockpit area, including a shattered window.

Passengers had a jarring experience. One described an immediate silence followed by a calm announcement from the pilot, confirming they had been in a crash.

Incidents like this heighten concerns over aviation safety, especially following a series of near misses recently. Former NTSB investigator Jeff Guzzetti pointed out that even at slow speeds, pilots are responsible for keeping an eye on their surroundings while taxiing. He emphasized that situational awareness is crucial during these maneuvers.

Interestingly, pilots usually turn off their landing lights at night to avoid blinding others, which may have contributed to visibility issues in this case. With both planes being CRJ-900s, which can hold up to 90 passengers, the impact of such incidents can echo throughout the aviation community.

The FAA has equipped LaGuardia with advanced radar to help monitor aircraft movements on the ground. While this technology aims to prevent runway collisions, it’s unclear if it played a role in this particular incident.

Passengers affected by the collision were provided with meals, hotel stays, and rebooking for their flights the following day.

As we reflect on this incident, it’s vital to consider that the aviation industry continually strives for safety. Statistics show that advances in technology and better training have significantly reduced accidents over the years. However, the need for vigilance persists.

For more detailed insights into aviation safety processes, consider checking out the FAA’s guidance on ground operations here.

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