Tragedy struck the Austin-Bergstrom International Airport on Thursday when an American Airlines employee was killed in a tarmac incident. The incident occurred at around 2 p.m. local time, outside the terminal where aircraft park at their gates, according to a statement by the airport.
The employee was operating a ground service vehicle that struck a jet bridge, said Austin Police Department Corporal, Destiny Silva, during a press briefing. The employee was pronounced dead at the scene, despite the efforts of the Austin-Travis County EMS.
The Austin Police Department’s vehicular homicide unit is investigating the incident as an accidental death. The employee worked for American Airlines, which confirmed the incident and expressed its condolences.
“We are devastated by the accident involving a team member at Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (AUS),” the airline said in a statement. “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.”
This tragic incident is a reminder of the importance of safety protocols in the aviation industry. Ground service vehicles are an essential part of airport operations, but they can also pose a danger to employees and other personnel on the tarmac. This is why it’s crucial to have rigorous safety training and procedures in place to minimize the risk of accidents.
While accidents like this are rare, they serve as a stark reminder of the risks involved in aviation operations. The industry must continue to prioritize safety to ensure that incidents like this never happen again. Our thoughts are with the employee’s family and friends during this difficult time.