Overview
• Operator: Air Wisconsin on behalf of American Airlines
• Aircraft Model: Canadair CRJ-200
• Registration: N420AW
• Flight Number: AA-6181
• Route: Kalamazoo, MI (USA) to Chicago O’Hare, IL (USA)
• Date: 1 February 2025
• Occupants: Passengers and crew unspecified
• Injuries: One ground crew member critically injured
• Damage: Tow truck toppled, aircraft condition unconfirmed
• Investigation: Ongoing
Incident Summary
Air Wisconsin flight AA-6181, a Canadair CRJ-200, landed safely at Chicago O’Hare International Airport and was taxiing to the apron when a tow truck attempted to cross the taxiway. The aircraft’s left wing struck the vehicle, toppling it over and trapping the driver underneath.
Emergency services responded immediately, extricating the 64-year-old driver, who suffered critical head and lower body injuries. He was transported to a hospital where he was stabilized.
Passengers and crew were safely bussed to the terminal following the accident. United Airlines confirmed that the tow truck involved belonged to them.
Sequence of Events
Landing & Taxi
• The aircraft landed safely at Chicago O’Hare and was following standard taxi procedures towards the gate.
Collision with Tow Truck
• A tow truck attempted to cross the taxiway but was struck by the aircraft’s left wing, causing it to topple over.
• The driver became trapped underneath the overturned vehicle, sustaining serious injuries.
Emergency Response
• Emergency services extricated the driver and transported him to a nearby hospital in critical condition.
• Medical staff managed to stabilize him following treatment.
Passenger & Crew Disembarkation
• Due to the accident, passengers and crew were bussed to the terminal instead of taxiing to the gate.
Investigation & Findings
• Airport authorities and airline officials are investigating how the tow truck came into the aircraft’s path.
• The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) have been notified.
• United Airlines has acknowledged ownership of the tow vehicle involved in the accident.
Analysis & Recommendations
Ground Operations Safety
• This incident highlights the importance of strict ground traffic control at busy airports like Chicago O’Hare.
• Investigators will review communication procedures between taxiing aircraft and ground vehicles to determine if clearance protocols were followed.
Airside Vehicle Coordination
• Airports must ensure that tow vehicle drivers receive timely updates on taxiway movements to avoid conflicts with aircraft operations.
• Improved ground crew situational awareness and vehicle clearance monitoring are critical in high-traffic environments.
Passenger & Crew Safety Protocols
• Air Wisconsin and American Airlines’ decision to bus passengers and crew to the terminal ensured safe and orderly disembarkation after the accident.
Aircraft Status & Next Steps
• The extent of damage to the aircraft is currently unknown.
• The tow truck suffered extensive damage and will be assessed.
• The FAA and NTSB investigations are ongoing, with a focus on taxiway safety procedures and vehicle coordination protocols.
Disclaimer
This report is based on available information as of 3 February 2025. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, the completeness of the details cannot be guaranteed. If you are the rightful owner of any referenced materials and wish them removed, please email takedown@cockpitking.com.
