Flight chaos at Manchester as easyJet planes clip wings

EasyJet aircraft at Manchester Airport where two planes clipped wings causing delays (Illustrative image) (Photo by OLI SCARFF/AFP via Getty Images) Getty Images

Two easyJet planes clipped wings during taxiing operations at Manchester Airport this morning just after 6:30am, causing immediate flight suspensions and widespread delays for passengers. The collision occurred as both aircraft were preparing for departure, with dramatic wing damage visible on one of the jets.

Passengers on board witnessed the moment of impact, with one traveller describing the scene in stark terms. Phil Aspin said: "We've crashed on the runway." Another passenger bound for Marbella reported: "Just on the plane at Manchester Airport and another plane has just hit our wing and took the wing off."

Immediate Safety Response

Airport authorities immediately suspended all flights as a precautionary safety measure while comprehensive safety checks were carried out on both aircraft. The dramatic response highlighted the serious nature of the incident, with photographs showing the two easyJet planes positioned side by side with visible wing damage described as "tip damaged and twisted downwards."

According to reports, the collision involved flights U22267 to Gibraltar and U22117 to Paris, both originally scheduled for 6:15am departure from Terminal One. Neither aircraft will be able to continue their planned journeys, with easyJet making alternative arrangements for all affected passengers.

Investigation and Recovery

EasyJet has launched an official investigation into the incident, with the airline stating that safety and security remain their highest priority. The collision raises important questions about ground operations and aircraft positioning during the busy morning departure period.

Flight operations at the UK's third busiest airport have since resumed, but passengers continue to face significant delays throughout the day. The incident occurred during peak summer holiday travel, amplifying the disruption for travellers heading to European destinations.

Sources used: "PA Media", "Daily Mail", "Manchester Evening News", "Liverpool Echo", "Daily Star" Note: This article has been edited with the help of Artificial Intelligence.