A United Airlines tug vehicle was struck by an Air Wisconsin plane at O’Hare International Airport, leaving the driver hospitalized in critical condition, authorities confirmed.
The accident occurred at 6:35 p.m. Saturday as Air Wisconsin Flight 6181, an American Airlines Bombardier CRJ-200, was approaching a gate.
The aircraft’s wing collided with the tug vehicle as it crossed the taxiway, causing the tug to flip over and pinning the driver underneath.
“On Saturday evening, a United tug at O’Hare made contact with another airline’s aircraft while it was taxiing. The United employee was taken to a local hospital for evaluation, and we are ensuring he receives any necessary support and care,” United Airlines said.
Chicago police reported that the driver, a 64-year-old man, was rushed to Lutheran General Hospital with head and lower body injuries but has since stabilized.
No passengers were injured, and they were safely transported to the terminal by bus.
The flight had departed from Kalamazoo/Battle Creek International Airport in Michigan before landing in Chicago.
“After safely landing at Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD), American Eagle flight 6181, operated by Air Wisconsin from Kalamazoo/Battle Creek International Airport (AZO) to ORD, came into contact with a tug on an active taxiway. Nothing is more important than the safety of our customers and team members, and we are reviewing this incident,” American Airlines said.
The FAA confirmed the incident and stated that the NTSB will be notified, but the board has not yet released a statement.
The investigation into the cause of the collision is ongoing.
“Air Wisconsin Flight 6181 was struck by a tug while approaching the gate at Chicago O’Hare International Airport around 7:35 p.m. local time on Saturday, Feb. 1. The passengers deplaned and were bused to the terminal. The Bombardier CRJ-200 departed from Kalamazoo/Battle Creek International Airport in Michigan. The FAA will investigate,” the FAA said.
