On the evening of October 1, 2025, a shocking two Delta jets collide incident occurred at New York’s LaGuardia Airport. The collision involved two Delta Connection regional jets operated by Endeavor Air, resulting in minor injuries and significant aircraft damage.
Incident Details
The collision happened around 9:00 PM ET on a busy taxiway. Flight 5047, arriving from Charlotte, North Carolina, was taxiing to its gate when its fuselage was struck by the wing of Flight 5155, which was preparing for departure to Roanoke, Virginia. Both aircraft were Bombardier CRJ-900 regional jets.
The impact caused immediate disruption at the airport, with ground crews quickly responding to secure the scene and assist passengers.
Injuries and Passenger Impact
A flight attendant on board was treated for a knee injury and transported to a local hospital. No passengers were reported injured. Flight 5047 had 57 passengers, while Flight 5155 carried 28.
Passengers were escorted safely back to the terminal, where airline staff provided meals, accommodations, and assistance with rebooking flights. The quick response prevented panic and ensured the safety of all passengers.
Aircraft Damage
Both jets suffered considerable damage:
- Flight 5047’s fuselage sustained a shattered cockpit window and damage to the nose section.
- Flight 5155’s wing, which struck Flight 5047, was also damaged.
As a result, both aircraft were grounded for immediate inspection and repairs, delaying subsequent flights.
Investigation and Response
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) have opened investigations to determine the cause of the collision. Preliminary reports indicate a possible miscommunication during taxiing, though details are still under review.
Delta Air Lines expressed regret over the incident and pledged full cooperation with authorities to identify the cause and enhance safety measures.
Safety Concerns and Industry Implications
This incident highlights the complexities of ground operations at major airports:
- Even low-speed collisions can cause significant damage and pose safety risks.
- Clear communication and strict adherence to taxiway protocols are essential.
- Industry experts suggest that airports may need to review procedures to prevent future ground collisions.
Although no passengers were injured, the collision serves as a reminder that airport safety is critical both in the air and on the ground.
Impact on Operations
The collision temporarily disrupted airport operations, delaying multiple flights. Ground crews worked to remove damaged aircraft from the taxiway and restore normal traffic flow.
Airline staff prioritized passenger assistance, ensuring that rebooking and accommodations minimized inconvenience. The incident underscores the importance of emergency preparedness and coordination between airlines, ground crews, and airport authorities.
Conclusion
The two Delta jets collide incident at LaGuardia Airport emphasizes the importance of rigorous safety measures during taxiing and ground operations. While no passengers were injured, the event demonstrates the risks associated with airport congestion and the need for continuous improvements in communication and protocol adherence.
As investigations proceed, findings will likely inform enhanced safety procedures to prevent similar incidents and ensure passenger and crew safety across the aviation industry.