Japan Airlines and Delta Jets in Tarmac Collision

Though. Uh, let’s move to the Seattle area. Take a look at this—pretty cool, live picture over the Seattle skyline. Of course, you can see the Space Needle in the distance.

We have to bring you some news, though, about another scary mishap on the tarmac between two planes in Seattle today. Earlier today, SeaTac reported that a Japan Airlines aircraft, while taxiing, appeared to have struck the tail of a parked Delta Airlines aircraft. Fortunately, no injuries have been reported. SeaTac officials are working with both airlines to safely deplane passengers and bring them to the terminal.

Cell phone video captures the moment when the tail of a Delta Airlines plane was hit. One passenger recalled witnessing the event unfold, stating that the pilot suddenly hit the brakes. Port of Seattle officials confirmed that the Japan Airlines plane was taxiing when it struck the parked Delta aircraft, which was waiting for de-icing at a designated area known as Cargo 7, located just south of the S Concourse. This is where planes receive de-icing fluid before continuing their journey.

The FAA has launched an investigation into how this incident occurred, including whether winter weather played a role. Officials noted that the taxi lanes were wet but not necessarily icy, though the investigation will determine if slick conditions were a contributing factor.

The impact affected more than just those onboard the two planes. Passengers scheduled to travel on the Japan Airlines flight to Tokyo are now scrambling to find alternative flights. Some were told they might be rebooked with another airline, while others are waiting to see if the plane can be repaired or replaced by tomorrow. Some passengers are now being rerouted to Bangkok instead.

Delta Airlines confirmed that all 142 passengers, pilots, and flight crew members were unharmed. First responders conducted thorough checks, ensuring that everyone onboard was safe before allowing them to deplane. Fire department personnel went from seat to seat, verifying passengers’ well-being, and received reassuring thumbs-ups from those onboard.

The nation remains on edge following recent deadly plane crashes in Washington, D.C., and Philadelphia. Although everyone is safe in this case, incidents like these still cause concern. The Japan Airlines aircraft’s wing reportedly sliced into the middle of the tail of the stationary Delta flight.

Seattle airport officials stated that all passengers involved in the incident between Japan Airlines Flight 68 and Delta Airlines Flight 1921 have been safely deplaned. Airlines are working to accommodate affected passengers while arranging for the damaged aircraft to be moved from the taxiway.

A Delta spokesperson, in an email to the Associated Press, confirmed that its Boeing 737 was waiting to have ice removed from its exterior when the wingtip of another aircraft reportedly made contact with its tail. Winter weather has been impacting flights across the country, requiring de-icing procedures before takeoff.

The FAA is actively investigating the incident, alongside numerous other aviation concerns. It remains to be seen whether Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy will address the situation. Regardless, this close call on the tarmac at SeaTac was a stark reminder of the complexities of airport operations and the importance of safety measures.