Aircraft tug driver critically injured after collision at O'Hare Airport

In Chicago, an accident occurred on Saturday night at O'Hare International Airport, resulting in the critical injury of a worker. At approximately 7:35 p.m. local time, Air Wisconsin flight 6181, a regional airline operating under American Eagle for American Airlines, was arriving at a gate after a flight from Kalamazoo, Michigan. An aircraft tug, operated by a United Airlines employee, collided with the plane while it was approaching the gate. The collision caused the tug to flip over, which led to the driver becoming trapped underneath it. Emergency responders were alerted, and the 64-year-old male driver sustained severe injuries to his head and lower body. He was promptly transported to Advocate Lutheran General Hospital and stabilized, but his condition remains critical under medical care. Fortunately, no passengers onboard the Bombardier CRJ-200 were harmed during this incident. After the collision, all passengers were safely disembarked and bused to the terminal without any significant disruptions to airport operations, according to the Chicago Department of Aviation. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is actively investigating the circumstances surrounding the incident and will identify any contributing factors that led to this unfortunate event. In light of the collision, a spokesperson for American Airlines emphasized their commitment to the safety of all customers and staff, confirming that the airline is reviewing the situation thoroughly. The collision's timing follows another tragic incident, where seven individuals lost their lives in a medical transport helicopter crash in Philadelphia just one day prior, raising concerns about aviation and ground safety in such busy airport environments.