(VIDEO) Panda crashes into private jet on runway, airport temporarily closed

An elderly Italian woman driving a Fiat Panda collided with a private aircraft on the runway at Milan's Linate Airport around 11:19 local time on August 10, according to aviation safety reports and footage captured by surveillance cameras. The incident occurred as the privately owned Hawker Beechcraft 400A, registered as I-AERB, was maneuvering along the taxiway. Surveillance footage shows the Panda suddenly appearing from the side and entering the path of the aircraft, which had nearly reached the runway before the collision took place. The car reportedly continued forward without visible braking before striking the front or right side of the plane’s nose. The driver of the Panda was identified as a 54-year-old employee of an external company providing ground support services at the airport. She was unharmed during the crash but required assistance afterward due to severe distress. Authorities have yet to determine the exact cause of the accident, though they are investigating possibilities such as health issues, distraction, or other factors. The investigation into the incident is ongoing. Both the aircraft and the car sustained significant damage. The aircraft suffered damage primarily to its nose section, while the Panda sustained damage to its right side, including broken doors and windows. The collision caused a temporary halt in operations at Linate Airport, lasting approximately 30 to 40 minutes. During this time, two incoming flights were rerouted, one landed at Bergamo Airport and another at Malpensa Airport near Milan. According to the Aviation Safety Network, the Hawker Beechcraft 400A involved in the incident is 33 years old and belongs to the company Slam Lavori Aerei. The aircraft was being operated on behalf of a private entity, though specific details about the flight’s purpose remain unclear. The aircraft’s age and maintenance history are under review as part of the broader investigation into the incident. Airport officials confirmed that emergency services responded promptly to secure the area after the collision. Safety checks were conducted on both the damaged aircraft and the vehicle before normal operations resumed at Linate Airport. According to statements from airport representatives, the disruption was brief, and the airport returned to regular service within half an hour of the incident. The collision has raised concerns about the coordination between ground vehicles and aircraft movements on airport premises. Ground support personnel typically operate under strict protocols to avoid conflicts with aircraft, especially during taxiing and takeoff procedures. Investigators will likely examine whether these protocols were followed correctly in this case. Additionally, the incident may prompt further reviews of safety measures and training for ground staff operating near active runways and taxiways. The aircraft involved in the incident has been removed from service pending inspection, and the extent of the damage will influence whether it can be repaired or if it will be retired. The Panda, which was used for ground support tasks, is also undergoing evaluation to assess its condition and determine if it requires repairs or replacement. Authorities have not ruled out the possibility of legal action against the driver or her employer, depending on the findings of the investigation. However, no charges have been filed as of yet. The focus remains on understanding how the collision occurred and preventing similar incidents in the future. The incident serves as a rare but serious reminder of the risks associated with ground operations at airports, even when all parties are following established procedures. While no injuries were reported, the potential for more severe consequences underscores the need for continuous vigilance and adherence to safety standards in airport environments.