airport news Archives - Aviation Today

SunExpress B737 With 181 Onboard Suffers Landing Gear Collapse While Taxiing At Antalya

Aviation Today News Desk / February 16, 2026

Antalya, Turkey: A Boeing 737-800 passenger jet operated by Turkish leisure airline SunExpress experienced a significant landing gear failure while […]

Incidents

American Airlines Flight Makes Emergency Return To Barbados Post Burst Tyre On Takeoff

Aviation Today News Desk / February 11, 2026

Bridgetown, Barbados: An American Airlines Boeing 737-823, operating Flight AA1284 from Bridgetown to Miami, was forced to make an emergency

San Antonio, United States: A Delta Air Lines passenger aircraft was forced to return and land safely at San Antonio International Airport Tuesday morning after a report of smoke from one of its engines prompted a precautionary emergency response. All passengers and crew members walked away without injury, and initial inspections found no active fire. The flight, carrying 143 people onboard, had just departed San Antonio en route to Atlanta when the flight crew reported signs of smoke coming from an engine shortly after takeoff. Flight operations personnel aboard the aircraft alerted air traffic controllers, and the pilots declared an emergency to secure priority access back to the airport runway. At approximately 11:03 a.m. local time, the San Antonio Fire Department and airport emergency responders were dispatched to the scene following the alert. Fire crews positioned along the runway stood by as the jet approached for landing, a standard precaution for possible in-flight mechanical issues. The aircraft touched down safely at about 11:20 a.m., and emergency services immediately inspected the plane on the tarmac. Despite the in-flight smoke report, responders found no flames, no active fire, and no evidence of ongoing combustion around the engine area. After a thorough check, emergency resources were scaled back and airport operations continued normally. Delta Air Lines confirmed that no injuries occurred during the event. Passengers were allowed to disembark normally once the aircraft had been cleared by authorities. The airline’s operations team is working with maintenance specialists to investigate the cause of the smoke indication reported by the crew. Delta representatives also stated that passengers affected by the disrupted flight are being rebooked on alternative services to reach their final destinations. The airline emphasized that the crew followed established safety procedures throughout the incident. Preliminary reports suggest that this emergency landing reflects the airline’s adherence to standard safety protocols for in-flight mechanical anomalies. Modern commercial jets are equipped with multiple warning systems designed to alert pilots to unusual conditions such as smoke, fire indicators, or engine malfunctions, ensuring swift action and passenger safety. San Antonio International Airport authorities noted that the quick cooperation between flight crews, air traffic controllers, and emergency services minimized risk and passenger disruption.

Incidents

Delta Air Lines Flight Makes Emergency Return To SAT After Engine Smoke, No Injuries

Aviation Today News Desk / February 4, 2026

San Antonio, United States: A Delta Air Lines passenger aircraft was forced to return and land safely at San Antonio

Dubai, United Arab Emirates: Global aviation operations have been significantly disrupted this week as a number of major carriers suspend or cancel flights to and from Israel and several key Gulf destinations, citing escalating geopolitical risks and heightened regional instability. Airlines including KLM, Air France, Lufthansa and British Airways have announced cancellations or temporary suspensions of services to critical hubs such as Tel Aviv (Ben Gurion Airport), Dubai and Riyadh, as well as broader route adjustments across the Middle East. The moves come amid intensifying security concerns related to rising tensions between the United States and Iran, and ongoing conflict dynamics in the region. Air France has temporarily halted flights between Paris and Dubai, stating that “due to the current situation in the Middle East,” the airline will suspend service to the UAE emirate for the time being. Dutch carrier KLM has paused flights not only to Tel Aviv but also to Dubai, Riyadh and Dammam (Saudi Arabia) while avoiding overflight of airspace above Iran, Iraq and several neighboring countries as a precaution. Lufthansa Group and British Airways have similarly scaled back operations to the region, with suspensions and cancellations affecting multiple daily services. The disruptions are reported to extend beyond European carriers, reflecting a broader industry response to the perceived security risks associated with the volatile geopolitical environment. These recent cancellations follow a broader pattern of flight suspensions and diversions that have periodically impacted Middle East routes throughout 2025 as regional tensions escalated. In past flare-ups, carriers such as Emirates, flydubai, Etihad Airways and Air Arabia also halted services to destinations including Iran, Iraq, Jordan and Lebanon due to airspace closures and safety concerns. Aviation industry analysts warn that these cancellations could have considerable knock-on effects for global travel and logistics networks. Passengers with upcoming itineraries to the affected regions are being urged to check flight statuses directly with airlines and to contact carriers promptly for rebooking or refund options where applicable. In related developments from prior months, international carriers had earlier extended or re-imposed suspensions for flights to and from Tel Aviv due to direct threats on airspace infrastructure. Airlines and aviation authorities emphasize that passenger and crew safety remain the top priorities guiding route decisions.

Airlines

Major Airlines Cancel Israel, Dubai & Riyadh Flights Amid Rising Middle East Tensions

Aviation Today News Desk / January 24, 2026

Dubai, United Arab Emirates: Global aviation operations have been significantly disrupted this week as a number of major carriers suspend

Sakaka, Saudi Arabia: Saudi Arabia has officially inaugurated the New Al‑Jouf International Airport in Sakaka, a strategic development aimed at expanding air connectivity in the Kingdom’s northern region. The ceremony was led by Prince Faisal bin Nawaf, Emir of Al‑Jouf, alongside Transport Minister Saleh bin Nasser Al‑Jasser, GACA President Abdulaziz Al‑Duailej, and other senior officials. The inauguration signals a significant step forward in Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 ambitions to modernize transport infrastructure and promote regional economic development. The new facility expands passenger capacity from 175,000 to 1.6 million annually, addressing growing demand for both domestic and international travel in the northern region. The airport’s 24,000-square-meter terminal is equipped with advanced passenger processing facilities, including two boarding bridges, seven departure gates, four arrival gates, 16 check-in counters, and modern automated passport control systems. Additional amenities include seven smart gates, a 470-meter baggage conveyor system, commercial and retail zones totaling 1,700 sqm, children’s play areas, and parking for 648 vehicles. At launch, the airport is served by three domestic Saudi airlines and four international carriers, connecting Al‑Jouf to destinations such as Riyadh, Jeddah, Sharjah, Dubai, Cairo, and Assiut. Domestic operations constitute the majority of flights, with Riyadh emerging as the busiest route, offering 38 weekly flights. Officials highlighted that the new airport will significantly improve travel convenience and reduce transit times for passengers in northern Saudi Arabia. Beyond passenger services, the airport is expected to stimulate tourism, trade, and local business development. The modern infrastructure will facilitate increased regional economic activity, create new employment opportunities, and serve as a gateway for international travelers exploring northern Saudi Arabia. GACA confirmed that full flight operations are scheduled to commence in February 2026, following final operational testing. Minister Al‑Jasser lauded the project as a reflection of Saudi Arabia’s strategic investment in modern transportation and logistics, stating that the airport “represents a strategic gateway for the northern region and a key enabler of tourism, commerce, and regional connectivity.” The airport also aligns with broader national objectives to diversify the economy, expand the tourism sector, and integrate Saudi Arabia more fully into global aviation networks. The inauguration of Al‑Jouf International Airport marks a transformative moment for northern Saudi Arabia, combining modern passenger facilities, expanded flight connectivity, and economic development potential. With its capacity to handle over 1.6 million passengers annually, the airport is expected to become a central hub for both domestic and international travel, strengthening the Kingdom’s position as a regional aviation and tourism leader.

Airports

Saudi Arabia Inaugurates Al-Jouf International Airport With 1.6 Million Capacity

Aviation Today News Desk / January 23, 2026

Sakaka, Saudi Arabia: Saudi Arabia has officially inaugurated the New Al‑Jouf International Airport in Sakaka, a strategic development aimed at

Orlando, United States: A United Airlines flight traveling from Chicago’s O’Hare International Airport to Orlando International Airport experienced a significant mechanical issue upon landing on Sunday afternoon, resulting in one of the aircraft’s nose wheels detaching and temporarily blocking the runway, authorities confirmed. United Airlines Flight UA2323, operated with an Airbus A321neo registered N14502, departed Chicago at approximately 8:55 a.m. CST and was scheduled to arrive at Orlando International Airport (MCO) at 12:35 p.m. EST. Shortly after touchdown on Sunday, January 18, video footage shared on social media captured the aircraft making contact with the runway under what appeared to be challenging weather conditions. During the landing sequence, one of the forward nose wheels detached from the aircraft and rolled off the runway surface. Eyewitness video shows the aircraft’s main wheels touching down, followed by a series of uneven bounces. The aircraft veered slightly, and the separated wheel can be seen rolling away from the plane. The aircraft ultimately came to a stop on the runway. United Airlines reported that there were 200 passengers and six crew members on board at the time of the incident. Despite the severity of the landing and the mechanical failure, no injuries were reported. Passengers were safely disembarked and transported to the terminal via buses after being unable to reach the gate normally. Immediately following the incident, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and airport authorities issued a ground stop at MCO, temporarily halting all departing and arriving flights to allow emergency crews to secure the scene and clear debris. The ground stop was later adjusted to a ground delay as operations gradually resumed later in the afternoon. Orlando International Airport is one of the busiest travel hubs in Florida, and the runway closure led to delays and logistical disruptions across scheduled flights during peak travel hours. Preliminary accounts noted gusty and windy conditions at the time of landing, with reported wind gusts above typical operational norms. While weather may have contributed to the severity of the landing, authorities have not confirmed whether it was a causal factor in the mechanical failure. United Airlines and the FAA have not yet released detailed technical findings, but the aircraft has been removed from service and is undergoing maintenance inspection. Investigators are reviewing whether the failure was due to the hard landing dynamics, mechanical fatigue, weather stress, or a combination of factors. Federal aviation safety teams are continuing their examination of the incident. Official reports from the FAA or the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) are expected in the coming days to clarify the precise mechanical cause and any contributing conditions. Final findings will inform whether industry safety procedures or maintenance protocols require updates.

Incidents

United Airlines Flight Loses Nose Wheel On Landing At Orlando, No Injuries Reported

Aviation Today News Desk / January 19, 2026

Orlando, United States: A United Airlines flight traveling from Chicago’s O’Hare International Airport to Orlando International Airport experienced a significant

Toronto, Canada: An Air Canada Rouge domestic flight was forced to return to the gate at Toronto Pearson International Airport on December 13, 2025, after a ground crew member became inadvertently trapped in the aircraft’s cargo hold, prompting passengers to alert cabin crew after hearing distressing noises. Flight AC1502, an Airbus A321 bound for Moncton, New Brunswick, had begun taxiing for departure when passengers seated toward the rear reported hearing screaming and banging sounds emanating from beneath the cabin. Several travellers notified flight attendants, who investigated and subsequently halted the aircraft’s progress. In a video shared on social media and verified by local media, the aircraft captain addressed passengers after the taxi was stopped. “I’ve never had that in my life. First time, hopefully first and last,” the pilot said, noting that the trapped individual was safely removed. According to Air Canada, the cargo doors were inadvertently closed while the ground crew member was still inside the hold, and he was discovered only after the plane had already begun to taxi. Emergency procedures were activated, and the aircraft immediately returned to the departure gate. The airline confirmed no injuries were reported and that the employee was freed from the cargo compartment without harm. In a statement to the media, Air Canada said it has “reinforced our procedures with our ground crews” to reduce the likelihood of similar incidents in the future. Passengers described the incident as unsettling. One traveller told CBC that the sounds from the hold were unmistakable and that flight attendants initially checked other areas of the aircraft before determining the source. The flight ultimately did not depart for Moncton as scheduled. Passengers were informed that the delay was beyond the control of the airline and that arrangements would be made for later travel.

Incidents

Air Canada Flight Returns To Toronto After Crew Member Trapped In Cargo Hold

Aviation Today News Desk / January 14, 2026

Toronto, Canada: An Air Canada Rouge domestic flight was forced to return to the gate at Toronto Pearson International Airport

Atlanta, United States: A LATAM Airlines Peru aircraft suffered multiple tire failures upon landing late Tuesday evening at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, prompting an emergency response and the evacuation of passengers onto the runway, officials said. The wide-body Boeing 767-300ER, operating as Flight 2482 from Lima, Peru, touched down safely at approximately 7:38 p.m. local time after a nonstop flight, according to preliminary data and statements from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). Moments after touchdown, several tires on the aircraft’s main landing gear blew out, though the flight crew maintained control and brought the aircraft to a stop on the runway without further incident. Emergency responders, including units from the Atlanta Fire Rescue Department, were dispatched to the scene after the airport was alerted to the blown tires. Early reports described the situation as “flat tires on an aircraft.” Video footage shared by on-scene observers showed passengers being guided off the aircraft directly onto the runway surface as mechanics worked under the jet to inspect and stabilize the damaged landing gear. Officials confirmed that no injuries were reported among passengers or crew. The FAA has opened an investigation into the cause of the tire failures, though preliminary findings have not yet been released. Portions of the runway were cleared briefly for safety checks, but overall airport operations continued with minimal disruption. Eyewitness accounts and passenger-posted commentary on social media indicate that the landing was perceived as unusually firm, with passengers reporting significant vibration as the aircraft touched down. Some online accounts suggest all eight main wheels may have been affected, though such details have not been confirmed by official sources. LATAM Airlines and partner Delta Air Lines, which have a codeshare agreement on certain routes, have not yet issued a formal statement regarding the incident or confirmed whether any Delta-booked passengers were on board. Airport authorities and airline representatives have been approached for comment. The FAA’s investigation will examine operational, mechanical and environmental factors that may have contributed to the tire blowouts. Similar wheel and tire incidents, while uncommon, have occurred at major airports in the past, typically resulting in emergency responses but rarely causing serious injuries when crews execute safe braking and evacuation procedures.

Incidents

LATAM Jet Suffers Tire Blowout After Landing In Atlanta, Passengers Evacuated Safely

Aviation Today News Desk / January 7, 2026

Atlanta, United States: A LATAM Airlines Peru aircraft suffered multiple tire failures upon landing late Tuesday evening at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta

Raleigh, United States: Two Boeing 737 aircraft operated by Avelo Airlines and Southwest Airlines were involved in a minor ground collision at Raleigh-Durham International Airport (RDU) on Thursday, January 1, 2026, airport and airline officials confirmed. The incident occurred on the airport apron while an Avelo Airlines Boeing 737-700 was being towed to a gate. During the repositioning maneuver, the Avelo aircraft’s wing made contact with a parked Southwest Airlines Boeing 737 MAX 8, resulting in minor damage to both aircraft. Officials confirmed that no passengers or crew were on board either aircraft at the time of the incident. There were no injuries reported, and the collision did not pose any immediate safety risk. Southwest Airlines stated that its aircraft was undergoing a maintenance inspection following the incident and emphasized that safety remains its top priority. Avelo Airlines also confirmed that its aircraft was being assessed by technical teams before returning to service. Raleigh-Durham International Airport authorities said that airport operations were not disrupted, and no runway closures or significant flight delays were reported as a result of the collision. However, at least one Avelo flight scheduled later in the day experienced a delay while inspections were carried out. The event has been classified as a ground handling incident, a category that typically involves aircraft movements during towing, parking, or pushback operations. Such incidents, while relatively rare, can occur in congested apron areas where precise coordination is required. Details of the collision have been logged by aviation safety databases, and no further regulatory action has been announced at this stage.

Incidents

Avelo Boeing 737 Clips Winglet Of Parked Southwest 737 MAX 8 During Ground Tow At RDU

Aviation Today News Desk / January 2, 2026

Raleigh, United States: Two Boeing 737 aircraft operated by Avelo Airlines and Southwest Airlines were involved in a minor ground

Istanbul, Turkey: A scheduled flight from Pristina to Istanbul ended in a runway excursion late on December 7 as a Anadolujet (AJet) Boeing 737-800 veered off the newly-opened runway at Sabiha Gökçen International Airport (SAW). The incident has forced closure of runway 06R/24L and triggered widespread flight delays and cancellations across one of Turkey’s busiest air hubs. Flight VF102 registration TC-JZN touched down on runway 24L just before 18:00 local time. According to Initial reports, the aircraft slowed but, while attempting a high-speed turnoff via taxiway A6 roughly 1,850 metres down the runway, failed to make the turn. The plane skidded off the paved surface onto soft ground adjacent to the runway, coming to a halt within the runway protected area. Despite the dramatic nature of the event, all passengers and crew on board were evacuated safely using external stairs and emergency slides were not deployed. There have been no reports of injuries. According to the airline and official statements from the embassy of Kosovo in Turkey, the aircraft’s deviation was not due to a mechanical failure or pilot error, but was triggered by wet and soft terrain following heavy rainfall in the area. Investigators have reportedly launched a probe to verify whether runway surface conditions played a decisive role. The incident forced an immediate closure of runway 06R/24L to allow for safe removal of the aircraft and inspection of the runway and taxiway infrastructure. Aviation authorities recorded flight delays. Flights operated by several major carriers including Turkish Airlines, as well as regional and international airlines were among those severely disrupted. For many passengers, plans for onward travel or hotel reservations in Istanbul and other destinations have been upended. Airport management crews have commenced full inspection of runway and taxiway surfaces, drainage systems, and runway safety features before reopening. Meanwhile, regulatory bodies have signaled that a broader review of weather-related landing protocols and runway maintenance procedures may follow.

Incidents

AJet 737 Skids Off Istanbul SAW Runway; Temporary Closure Disrupts Hundreds Of Flights

Aviation Today News Desk / December 8, 2025

Istanbul, Turkey: A scheduled flight from Pristina to Istanbul ended in a runway excursion late on December 7 as a

airport news

SunExpress B737 With 181 Onboard Suffers Landing Gear Collapse While Taxiing At Antalya

American Airlines Flight Makes Emergency Return To Barbados Post Burst Tyre On Takeoff

Delta Air Lines Flight Makes Emergency Return To SAT After Engine Smoke, No Injuries

Major Airlines Cancel Israel, Dubai & Riyadh Flights Amid Rising Middle East Tensions

Saudi Arabia Inaugurates Al-Jouf International Airport With 1.6 Million Capacity

United Airlines Flight Loses Nose Wheel On Landing At Orlando, No Injuries Reported

Air Canada Flight Returns To Toronto After Crew Member Trapped In Cargo Hold

LATAM Jet Suffers Tire Blowout After Landing In Atlanta, Passengers Evacuated Safely

Avelo Boeing 737 Clips Winglet Of Parked Southwest 737 MAX 8 During Ground Tow At RDU

AJet 737 Skids Off Istanbul SAW Runway; Temporary Closure Disrupts Hundreds Of Flights

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