Japan Airlines Plane Clips Delta Plane while it was taxiing, Seattle airport says

The recent incident involving a Japan Airlines plane clipping a parked Delta Air Lines aircraft at Seattle-Tacoma International Airport highlights critical issues related to airport safety and operational protocols. On February 5, 2025, the right wing of the Japan Airlines plane made contact with the tail of Delta Flight 1921 while it was undergoing de-icing procedures. Fortunately, no injuries were reported among passengers or crew on either aircraft; however, accounts from passengers aboard the Delta flight described the experience as frightening due to "violent shaking" and a "loud crunching sound" . This incident raises questions regarding situational awareness and communication between ground crews and taxiing aircraft.

Per the airport authorities, all passengers of both aircraft were deplaned and there were no reported injuries for crew or passengers. The response personnel were working to move the plane off the taxiway, they added. 

Jason Chan, one of the passengers on the Delta flight, told the Associated Press that the plane "jiggled back and forth" and shook a little bit when the collision occurred. Shortly after, the captain announced that the plane's tail had been hit. Passengers remained calm, Chan said, and eventually got off the plane to be bused back to the terminal.

The airport said it was working to safely deplane passengers to bring them to the terminal. For all other flights, officials say there has been a minimal impact on operations due to the crash.

"We sincerely apologize to all involved for any inconvenience. The detailed cause and circumstances are currently under investigation," Japan Airlines said  in a statement.

Delta Flight 1921, a Boeing 737 with 142 customers on board, was scheduled to fly from Seattle to Puerto Vallarta, Mexico, the airline said, adding that it rebooked customers on a new flight.

Japan Airlines said Flight JL68, which had 172 passengers and 13 crew members on board, was taxiing after arrival from Narita International Airport in Japan when the right wing of the Boeing 787-9 clipped the tail of the Delta plane.

Moreover, this event serves as a reminder of the inherent risks associated with airport operations where multiple aircraft are maneuvering in close proximity. It underscores the necessity for rigorous training programs for ground personnel and enhanced communication systems to prevent similar incidents in the future . As investigations continue, stakeholders within aviation must prioritize safety measures to mitigate risks associated with taxiing operations at busy airports.

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Sarah H

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