A Delta Air Lines employee was killed late Thursday, May 7, after an aircraft towing vehicle crashed into a passenger boarding bridge at Orlando International Airport.
The incident happened around 10:55 p.m. on the airport ramp, according to reports from local officials and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).
Officials said the worker was operating or near an aircraft tug — a vehicle used to tow planes on the ground — when it struck a passenger boarding bridge.
The employee died at the scene, according to reports. Authorities have not publicly identified the victim.
The FAA said no aircraft was involved in the crash. However, passengers aboard Delta Flight 2593 were forced to exit the plane using the rear door and mobile airstairs following the incident.
A spokesperson for Delta Air Lines said the company is cooperating with investigators.
Operations at Delta’s Orlando station were temporarily paused after the crash, forcing at least one flight cancellation Thursday night, according to local reports. Affected passengers were accommodated on other flights.
The Orlando Police Department said preliminary information indicates the incident appears to have been accidental.
The investigation remains ongoing.
