Startling Taxiway Incident at SFO: United Planes Make Contact, No Injuries Reported

A routine Tuesday afternoon at San Francisco International Airport (SFO) took an unsettling turn on September 3, 2024, when two United Airlines aircraft, a Boeing 777 and a Boeing 757, made unexpected contact on a busy taxiway. The incident, which occurred around 2:40 PM local time, involved the wingtip of the larger Boeing 777 clipping the tail of the Boeing 757, sending a jolt through both planes and prompting an immediate response from airport authorities and the airline.

United Airlines confirmed the minor collision, stating that United Flight 1118, a Boeing 777 bound for San Jose, Costa Rica, was pushing back from the gate when its wing struck the tail of United Flight 2011, a Boeing 757 awaiting departure to Chicago O’Hare International Airport.

While the images of the damaged aircraft quickly circulated, the most crucial detail emerged swiftly: remarkably, no injuries were reported among the passengers or crew on either plane. This fortunate outcome is a testament to the robust safety protocols and the nature of the low-speed contact.

Following the incident, both aircraft were taken out of service for thorough inspections and repairs.

Passengers on both flights experienced significant disruptions; they were safely deplaned and subsequently rebooked on alternative flights to their destinations. United Airlines issued a statement apologizing for the inconvenience and confirmed that their primary concern was the safety and well-being of their customers and crew.

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has launched a meticulous investigation into the circumstances surrounding the taxiway collision.

Investigators will be examining air traffic control communications, ground movement procedures, aircraft maintenance records, and witness accounts to determine the exact cause of the contact. Such incidents, while rare, highlight the complexities of ground operations at bustling international hubs like SFO, where precision and communication are paramount.

This event serves as a stark reminder of the continuous challenges faced by the aviation industry in maintaining flawless operations amidst high traffic volumes.

As the FAA's investigation progresses, the findings will undoubtedly contribute to refining safety procedures and preventing similar occurrences in the future, reinforcing the unwavering commitment to passenger safety that underpins air travel globally.