The Milan Bergamo airport in Italy was shut down on Tuesday after a man was ‘sucked into an aircraft engine’. The horrifying incident took place while Flight V73511 was completing its ‘pushback’ move to exit the parking area. Airport authorities have since shared an official statement flagging ‘technical problems’ without divulging details.
Local newspaper Corriere Della Sera reported that the accident took place while the plane was manouevering out of the parking area and preparing for take-off. It remains unclear whether the 35-years-old was passenger or airport staff member. He reportedly ran onto the tarmac and into the path of an an Airbus A319 Volotea aircraft bound for Asturias in Spain.
“SACBO (the airport operator) advises that due to an aircraft grounded on the runway due to technical problems, operations are suspended. Departing flights are delayed and arriving flights may be diverted or cancelled until reopened,” the airport wrote on social media.
“We’re investigating reports of an incident involving our flight V73511 BGY-OVD, which occurred on the ground after boarding was completed and ready for departure. We’re aware that one individual has sustained serious injuries involving the aircraft engine. More information soon,” the airline added.