SpiceJet Aircraft Hits Akasa Jet at Delhi Airport, Probe Launched

 New Delhi: Two aircraft operated by SpiceJet and Akasa Air were involved in a ground incident at Indira Gandhi International Airport after their wings made contact while taxiing, officials confirmed.

The incident occurred on Thursday afternoon near Terminal 1, when a SpiceJet flight arriving from Leh was moving towards its parking stand and struck an Akasa aircraft that was stationary and preparing for departure to Hyderabad. The impact caused visible damage to both planes, with a portion of the SpiceJet aircraft’s winglet reportedly getting lodged in the Akasa jet’s tail section.

According to preliminary information, the Akasa aircraft had already completed pushback and was positioned on the apron when the incoming SpiceJet aircraft made contact during taxiing. Following the collision, the Akasa flight was forced to return to the bay, and passengers were safely deboarded while alternative travel arrangements were initiated.

The Directorate General of Civil Aviation has launched a detailed investigation into the incident. As part of initial action, both the SpiceJet pilots involved and the air traffic controller on duty have been derostered pending the outcome of the probe.

SpiceJet confirmed that its Boeing 737-700 aircraft sustained damage to its right winglet, while the Akasa plane suffered damage to its horizontal stabiliser. Both aircraft have been grounded for further inspection and repairs.

Authorities are now examining the sequence of events leading to the collision, including ground movement coordination and communication between cockpit crew and air traffic control, to determine responsibility and prevent similar incidents in the future.