Runway Rattle: Two United Airlines Planes Collide at Newark, Passengers Describe Alarming Impact

A scene of unexpected drama unfolded on a bustling Monday evening at Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) when two United Airlines aircraft, both preparing for departure, were involved in a startling collision on the taxiway. The incident, which occurred just before 9:00 PM, left passengers shaken but thankfully unharmed, sparking immediate investigations by aviation authorities.

The collision involved United Airlines Flight 2378, a Boeing 737 bound for Orlando, Florida, and United Airlines Flight 2095, a Boeing 787 preparing for its journey to Houston, Texas.

According to initial reports, as the Orlando-bound aircraft was being pushed back from its gate, its wingtip made contact with the tail section of the Houston-bound plane, which was simultaneously taxiing towards its own departure runway. The impact was significant enough to be felt and heard by those on board both aircraft.

Passengers recounted the terrifying moments inside the cabins.

Reports flooded in of a distinct, jarring "thud" or "crunch" that reverberated through the planes. "We were just sitting there, waiting, and suddenly there was this massive jolt and a loud noise," one passenger on the Orlando flight described, still audibly unsettled by the experience. Another traveler on the Houston-bound jet shared, "It felt like we've been hit, and there was a very clear sound of metal scraping.

Everyone looked around, confused and a little scared at first." The initial confusion quickly gave way to the grim realization that a collision had occurred on the tarmac.

Despite the alarming nature of the incident, officials confirmed that there were no injuries reported among passengers or crew on either flight.

However, the operational impact was immediate and substantial. Both aircraft were grounded, preventing their planned departures. Passengers were deplaned and subsequently faced significant delays and rebookings as United Airlines worked to accommodate them on alternative flights, causing considerable disruption to their travel plans.

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has swiftly launched an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the collision.

Their inquiry will delve into communication protocols, ground movement procedures, and any other factors that may have contributed to this rare and unnerving event. While such incidents are uncommon, they serve as a stark reminder of the complexities and potential hazards inherent in busy airport operations.

The focus now remains on understanding exactly what transpired to prevent future occurrences and ensure the continued safety of air travel.