A ground crew member was hospitalized following a collision with an American Airlines Boeing 787 at Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW). The incident occurred as the aircraft was taxiing towards the gate, reportedly resulting in serious injuries to the individual, who is currently in intensive care.
Videos and posts shared by aviation insider JonNYC on social media depict the moment the Boeing 787 struck the crew member, often referred to as a “wing walker.” This role typically involves guiding aircraft to their parking spots, ensuring safe movements around the plane. As the aircraft approached the terminal, the wing walker appears to have entered the path of the moving aircraft, which led to the tragic accident.
While the precise circumstances leading to the crew member being in the aircraft’s path remain unclear, it is standard practice for ground crew to maintain a safe distance when an aircraft is in motion. Their role is to provide an additional set of eyes for the cockpit, focusing on clearance around the wings and tail.
Witnesses expressed shock at the incident, which highlights the dangers associated with ground operations at busy airports. Gary Leff from View From the Wing commented on the unfortunate frequency of such collisions and the risks involved in ground handling.
Details of the Incident and Response
The video capturing the event has raised concerns among aviation professionals and the public alike. Following the collision, the injured staff member was transported to a local hospital to receive treatment for head injuries. As of now, the specific details surrounding the investigation remain undisclosed.
American Airlines has not yet commented on the incident, despite inquiries from media outlets, including Simple Flying, seeking clarification and additional information. The airline is known for its operations at DFW, which serves as a major hub for both American Airlines and several other commercial carriers.
Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport is one of the busiest airports in the United States. Located between the cities of Dallas and Fort Worth, it covers a vast area and features six terminals with a total of 224 gates. American Airlines dominates the airport’s operations, with a market share exceeding 66 percent of all flight operations from March 2024 to February 2025, accommodating over 47.8 million passengers during that period.
Safety Protocols and Future Developments
The incident has prompted discussions about safety protocols for ground crew at major airports. Typically, all personnel are required to stay clear of the exclusion zones around aircraft during taxiing. The expectation is that ground crew members will effectively guide flights while ensuring their own safety and that of others on the tarmac.
As investigations continue, more details may emerge regarding the circumstances of this unfortunate event. Simple Flying aims to provide updates as new information is made available. The team extends its best wishes to the injured crew member for a swift recovery.
