Milan Bergamo (Orio al Serio) Airport in northern Italy was shaken on Tuesday morning by a tragic and highly unusual accident. According to initial reports, a man believed to be around 35 years old illegally entered the airport by car. After breaching security barriers and reaching the runway, the individual approached the engine of a Volotea Airlines Airbus A319 and was fatally sucked into the running engine.
Aircraft Was Preparing for Take-Off
The aircraft involved in the accident was preparing for a flight to Asturias, Spain. The incident occurred around 10:20 a.m. local time, leaving both the aircraft crew and ground staff in deep shock.
According to eyewitnesses, the man entered the airside area by driving in the wrong direction and then ran towards the terminal. Despite multiple security interventions, he could not be stopped and ran towards the aircraft, where the tragedy unfolded as he got dangerously close to the active engine.
Not a Passenger, Identity Not Yet Released
Volotea Airlines confirmed that the individual had no connection to the airline or the flight and was not listed as a passenger on board. The man’s identity has not yet been made public.
Airport Temporarily Closed
Following the accident, nine flights were diverted to other airports, and several others were cancelled. Ryanair’s scheduled flights to various European cities were among those significantly affected. Air traffic at the airport was suspended for approximately one and a half hours, after which operations resumed gradually and under strict control.
Comprehensive Investigation Launched
Airport operator SACBO announced that authorities have launched an investigation into the incident. Officials are closely examining how security protocols were breached and how the individual gained such easy access to the airside area.
