American Airlines employee dies after tarmac incident at Austin airport
The employee’s vehicle crashed into a passenger boarding bridge, police said.
An American Airlines employee at Austin-Bergstrom International Airport was killed in a runway accident on Thursday, authorities said.
The incident happened around 2 p.m. local time, officials said. The airline worker was injured outside the terminal where planes are parked at their gates, the airport said in a statement.
The employee “serviced a ground service vehicle that hit a jet bridge,” Austin Police Department corporal Destiny Silva told reporters during a news conference Thursday.
Austin-Travis County EMS responded and the employee was pronounced dead at the scene, the airport said.
The Austin Police Department’s Vehicle Homicide Unit is currently investigating the incident as an accidental death, Silva said.
“Our thoughts are with this employee and everyone affected by today’s tragic event,” the airport said.
Planes wait on the tarmac at Austin-Bergstrom International Airport in this September 7, 2022 file photo.
Jay Janner/Austin American-Statesman via USA Today Network, FILE
The employee worked for American Airlines, the airline confirmed.
“We are devastated by the accident involving a team member at Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (AUS),” the airline said in a statement. “Our thoughts and prayers are with the family and our local team members. We are focused on making sure everyone involved has the support they need during this difficult time.”
The airport said there are currently “no significant effects” on airport operations.
This is an evolving story. Please check back for updates.
