Stay up to date with notifications from The Independent

Notifications can be managed in browser preferences.

Airline worker dies after vehicle crashed into jet bridge at Austin airport

An employee was operating a ground service vehicle at the time

Ariana Baio
Friday 21 April 2023 19:04 BST
Comments
Airplane passengers push plane off the runway after tyre bursts

Your support helps us to tell the story

From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.

At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.

The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.

Your support makes all the difference.

An American Airlines employee worker died on Thursday at Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (AUS) after being injured when a vehicle crashed into a jet bridge – the extended corridor that connects planes and terminal gates – according to authorities.

Around 2pm on 20 April, Austin Police Department (APD) officers responded to a report of a crash at the airport, according to Corporal Destiny Silva from the APD public information office.

The employee, who was only identified as an adult male, was operating a ground service vehicle when it struck a jet bridge at the apron level of the airport.

The apron level is where planes are parked, unloaded or loaded, refuelled, boarded or maintained.

Upon arrival, authorities noted “obvious signs of trauma” to the man’s body according to Cpl Silva.

“Unfortunately the male succumbed to his injuries on scene and was pronounced deceased,” Ms Silva said in a press conference.

In a statement provided to The Independent, American Airlines said, "We are devastated by the accident involving a team member at Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (AUS). Our thoughts and prayers are with the family and our local team members. We are focused on ensuring that all involved have the support they need during this difficult time."

The accident is currently under investigation by the APD.

Earlier this year, a ground worker at the Montgomery Regional Airport Alabama died after being sucked into a jet engine. A preliminary report by the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) found that safety protocols were not properly followed in the death of the employee.

Join our commenting forum

Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies

Comments

Thank you for registering

Please refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged in