New York – A tense incident unfolded at LaGuardia Airport on Wednesday evening when two Delta Air Lines aircraft made unintended contact during ground operations, resulting in structural damage to one plane and at least one reported injury, according to airport officials.
The collision occurred as routine taxiing turned chaotic on the tarmac, highlighting the narrow margins for error in one of the nation’s busiest aviation hubs. LaGuardia authorities swiftly confirmed the details of the mishap, which involved a Delta regional jet striking another aircraft positioned near a gate. Eyewitness accounts from the scene painted a vivid picture of the sequence: one plane, in the midst of repositioning after arrival or in preparation for departure, was sideswiped by the oncoming jet, leading to the visible detachment of a wing component.
A CBS News producer, who happened to be on site amid the evening bustle, provided a firsthand glimpse into the event. “One of the planes was taxiing at the gate at LaGuardia when it was struck by another Delta regional jet,” the producer recounted, underscoring the suddenness of the impact in a confined space where precision is paramount.
Social media quickly amplified the story as a video clip emerged online, capturing the stark aftermath. The footage reveals the compromised aircraft, with its wing visibly separated and strewn nearby, underscoring the potential hazards of ground handling even for seasoned carriers like Delta. No immediate details were available on the extent of the damage or the full scope of injuries, but emergency responders attended promptly, ensuring passenger and crew safety amid the disruption.
This ground-level accident serves as a reminder of the rigorous protocols in place at major airports like LaGuardia, where thousands of flights navigate tight quarters daily. Investigations are underway to determine contributing factors, with Delta Air Lines and federal regulators expected to review procedures. As of Thursday morning, operations at the airport continued without widespread delays, though the episode has drawn scrutiny to taxiway management.