
(TheProudRepublic.com) – In a shocking incident at Chicago O’Hare Airport, a 64-year-old airport driver was critically injured when an Air Wisconsin jet’s wing struck his tug vehicle, flipping it over.
This accident, the third aircraft-related incident in the U.S. within four days, raises serious questions about airport safety protocols and the competence of those responsible for overseeing air travel operations.
The collision occurred in West Twya Street at O’Hare as Air Wisconsin Flight 6181, operated on behalf of American Airlines, was taxiing to the gate after landing.
The United Airlines tug, driven by the now-injured employee, attempted to cross an active taxiway when the aircraft’s wing hit it.
The Chicago Police Department reported, “The tug flipped over, pinning the driver underneath it.”
The driver sustained severe head and lower-body injuries, highlighting the potential dangers faced by ground crew workers at busy airports.
While the 64-year-old driver fights for his life in the hospital, questions arise about the training and safety measures in place for ground personnel.
Following the incident, American Airlines said in a statement, “Nothing is more important than the safety of our customers and team members, and we are reviewing this incident.”
While the company claimed safety is its priority, this incident and two other recent aviation accidents suggest a disturbing pattern of negligence in the industry.
Just days before, a midair collision between an American Eagle plane and a U.S. Army helicopter over the Potomac River resulted in 67 fatalities, and a separate incident saw a medical plane crash in Northeast Philadelphia, killing seven.
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has launched an investigation into the O’Hare accident.
Still, given its track record, whether citizens can trust those airlines to hold the responsible parties accountable is questionable.
Adding to the situation’s complexity, Air Wisconsin recently announced the end of its partnership with American Airlines, set for April 2025.
This decision will result in over 500 Air Wisconsin employees losing their jobs due to operational changes.
Investigation results are still pending. The aviation community and conservative readers nationwide will eagerly await findings, hoping for transparency and decisive action to prevent such dangerous mishaps in the future.
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