A horrifying accident unfolded at Bergamo Airport in northern Italy when a 35-year-old man died after being pulled into the engine of a plane preparing for take-off. The incident, which occurred on July 8, shocked airport staff and passengers alike, and prompted an immediate suspension of several flights.
Authorities confirmed that the man was not a passenger nor an airport staff member. Instead, he had reportedly entered the airport illegally, bypassing security measures and accessing the runway through an emergency exit. The aircraft involved, operated by Spanish budget carrier Volotea, was scheduled for a routine commercial flight to Asturias, Spain.
According to initial reports, the man had driven against traffic flow near the airport before forcing his way into the terminal building. He then sprinted across the tarmac and was pursued by security personnel who were unable to intercept him before the fatal accident occurred.
Airline and Airport Respond to Shocking Engine Incident
The incident took place at around 10:35am local time (4:35pm Singapore time), just as the plane was preparing to depart. Witnesses described the scene as chaotic and surreal. Moments later, emergency services arrived at the scene, but the man had already suffered fatal injuries after being sucked into the aircraft’s running engine.
Volotea confirmed via a post on X (formerly Twitter) that the deceased was not affiliated with the airline in any way. All 154 passengers and six crew members were unharmed. The airline added that psychological support has been extended to affected passengers and staff who witnessed the incident.
Bergamo Airport, Italy’s third busiest air hub by passenger volume, temporarily grounded at least 19 flights in the aftermath of the accident. Operations resumed later in the day, but not before significant delays and disruptions occurred across the airport’s schedule.
Security Breach Raises Questions About Aviation Safety Measures
The tragedy has raised serious questions about airport security protocols, especially regarding the vulnerability of runways and restricted zones to unauthorised access. Aviation experts and Italian authorities have launched a joint investigation into how the man managed to breach multiple layers of security undetected until it was too late.
Flightradar24, a global flight-tracking platform, confirmed the aircraft involved was an Airbus A319. Aviation industry observers have expressed concern over the incident, calling it a stark reminder of the dangers associated with airside intrusions.
While the motive behind the man’s actions remains unclear, local police are working to establish his background and possible mental health history. Until then, many are left wondering how such a severe lapse in safety occurred at a major European airport.
This incident adds to a growing list of global aviation safety concerns, highlighting the importance of constant vigilance, infrastructure upgrades, and mental health awareness near transport hubs.