A major aircraft accident was averted at Delhi Airport when the wings of two planes collided with each other. Following the collision, all passengers were deboarded from the aircraft as a safety measure, and both planes have been grounded. The incident involved aircraft from SpiceJet and Akasa Air.
Details of the Incident and Flights Involved
The collision occurred near Terminal 1 of the Delhi Airport. Akasa Air's flight (QP 1406) was scheduled to depart from Delhi to Hyderabad and was stationary after pushback. At the same time, a SpiceJet aircraft (B737-700), which had arrived from Leh, was taxiing when the contact occurred between the two vessels.
Extent of Damage and Passenger Safety
According to the reports, the collision caused damage to the right wing of the SpiceJet aircraft and the left stabilizer of the Akasa Air plane. Fortunately, no passengers or crew members sustained any injuries during the incident. Both airlines immediately initiated safety protocols to ensure the well-being of everyone on board.
Official Statement from SpiceJet
A spokesperson for SpiceJet stated that while their B737-700 aircraft was taxiing, it came into contact with an aircraft from another airline. The spokesperson confirmed that the winglet of the right-hand wing of the SpiceJet plane was damaged, while the rear section (horizontal stabilizer) of the other airline's aircraft sustained damage. The SpiceJet aircraft has been grounded in Delhi for further assessment.
Response from Akasa Air and Alternative Arrangements
The spokesperson for Akasa Air confirmed the incident involving flight QP 1406 from Delhi to Hyderabad. The airline stated that while their aircraft was stationary, another airline's plane collided with it. Consequently, the flight had to be cancelled, and the aircraft was moved back to the parking bay. Akasa Air emphasized that all passengers and crew members are completely safe and that the airline is arranging an alternative aircraft to transport the passengers to Hyderabad.