A Japan Airlines plane struck the tail of a Delta Airlines aircraft while taxiing at Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA) on Wednesday morning, causing alarm among passengers.
The incident occurred at 10:17 a.m. when the Japan Airlines flight, arriving from Narita International Airport, clipped the tail of a stationary Delta plane waiting for deicing. Fortunately, no injuries were reported, but passengers described the impact as a “car crash-like jolt.”
Eyewitnesses aboard the Japan Airlines plane recalled the shocking moment.
“I saw it coming—I thought we were going to hit that plane, and we did,” said David Wolman, a passenger from Snohomish.
Others described the plane suddenly stopping, followed by a wave of confusion.
“The wing was embedded into the Delta plane’s tail,” said passenger Lida Turner, adding that many on board were in disbelief.
Both Japan Airlines and Delta Airlines issued official statements confirming the collision.
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“While taxiing upon arrival at SEA Airport, the right wing of Flight JL68 came into contact with another aircraft’s tail. No injuries were reported, and we sincerely apologize for the inconvenience. An investigation is underway.” stated Japan Airlines
Delta Airlines also responded;”During deicing preparations, the tail of a Delta 737 reportedly made contact with another airline’s wing tip. No injuries were reported, and customers were rebooked on a new flight.”
The Delta flight, bound for Puerto Vallarta, Mexico, faced delays, with passengers accommodated on a replacement flight. Meanwhile, winter weather continues to disrupt air travel across Western Washington, with deicing operations in full force.
This latest aviation incident raises concerns amid increasing safety scrutiny in the airline industry.
