A Turkish Airlines Boeing 777‑3Q8 collided with a ground radar antenna while taxiing at Antalya Airport on Tuesday, damaging the wing and causing the antenna to collapse onto the fuselage. The impact forced the evacuation of all 267 passengers on flight TK2430 from Istanbul, with only one minor injury reported. According to the airline’s Communications Director , Yahya Üstün, the evacuation was completed safely and the injured passenger was in good health.
Antalya Airport’s Radar Antenna Falls on 777‑3Q8 Wing
According to the source, the aircraft’s wing struck the antenna, which then collapsed onto the plane’s fuselage with significant force.. The collision caused overhead compartments to open, spilling contents and triggering automatic oxygen mask delpoyment. A Russian passenger captured footage of the damage inside the cabin, showing a large gash on the plane’s exterior.
Safe Evacuation of 267 Passengers Amid Chaos
Emergency responders, including paramedics and firefighters, assisted after the evacuation. Passengers described a frightening sound and a woman becoming hysterical as the metal tore into the aircraft. The airline confirmed that all passengers were safely evacuated using the aircraft’s stairs.
Minor Injury and Luggage Retrieval Delay Reported
One passenger suffered a minor injury and was reported to be in good health. Russian tourists noted a two‑hour delay in retrieving their luggage following the incident, adding to the confusion on the tarmac.
Technical Investigation Launched by Turkish Airlines
The airline has launched a technical investigation into the accident, as stated by the source.. The investigation will examine the cause of the collision and assess any procedural or equipment failures that may have contributed to the event.
Unanswered Questions About Airport Safety Protocols
What specific safety protocols were in place at Antalya Airport to prevent such collisions? How will the airline and airport authorities address the structural integrity of ground radar antennas? Who will be held accountable for the incident’s cause?
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