A Southwest Airlines plane experienced an unexpected incident during boarding when a ground equipment vehicle struck it at Memphis International Airport in Tennessee. This occurrence, involving Flight 4013, was confirmed by both the airline and the airport.
Flight Impact and Passenger Guidance
Following the contact, Flight 4013 was taken out of service, but fortunately, there were no reported injuries among passengers or crew members. The airline stated that passengers were subsequently directed to board an alternate aircraft to continue their journey.
The alternate plane was initially set to operate the route to Dallas, though Flight 4013 resumed service to Harry Reid International Airport in Las Vegas according to the company’s website. Due to this disruption, passengers faced a delay, departing nearly four hours late and arriving around 5:30 p.m. instead of the originally scheduled 1:50 p.m.
Official Statements and Investigation
The Memphis Shelby County Airport Authority labeled the incident as isolated, ensuring that it was confirmed as such in a statement. Southwest Airlines has indicated that an investigation is underway to determine the circumstances and ensure safety, a primary concern for the company.
According to Southwest Airlines, the event will be scrutinized under their comprehensive Safety Management System, emphasizing the importance of customer and employee safety.
This incident comes amid previous occurrences involving Southwest, such as an unplanned return due to an ‘engine issue’ during a flight heading to Mexico from Houston.