Container Fallen on Runway... Sucked into Passenger Plane Engine and Shattered

Accident at Chicago O'Hare Airport, USA
Baggage container detached from tow vehicle
Sucked into engine of landing passenger plane

A harrowing accident occurred at a U.S. airport where a cargo container was sucked into an airplane engine. On the 24th (local time), aviation specialty magazine 'AeroTime' reported, "On the 17th, a cargo container was sucked into the engine of an American Airlines aircraft on the runway at Chicago O'Hare Airport." The container was destroyed and the aircraft was severely damaged in the incident, but fortunately, there were no casualties.

The aircraft engine captured by an employee. [Image source=Windy City Wheelman X (formerly Twitter) capture]

The Boeing 787 passenger plane involved in the accident had just landed on the runway at O'Hare Airport after departing from London Heathrow Airport. At the time, a tug vehicle transporting baggage containers was crossing the taxiway on the runway when the accident occurred. Three containers connected to the vehicle rolled off, and one of them was sucked into the passenger plane's engine, shattering into pieces.

Photos from the accident show that the container sucked into the engine was crushed beyond recognition, with only some debris remaining inside the engine. Fortunately, all 283 passengers and 12 crew members on board the aircraft were reported to have disembarked safely.

American Airlines stated, "It was reported that the engine of the American Airlines aircraft operating from London Heathrow was damaged while heading to the gate at O'Hare Airport," adding, "The aircraft has been grounded for inspection by the maintenance team." They further said, "Safety is our top priority, and we thank the team members who demonstrated professionalism and the customers for their understanding." The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is currently investigating the exact cause of the accident.