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Ahmedabad, India: A potentially serious ground incident was averted at Ahmedabad's Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport after an Air India aircraft inadvertently entered an active taxiway following landing and came face-to-face with an IndiGo aircraft preparing for departure. Swift intervention by Air Traffic Control (ATC) prevented the situation from escalating, with both aircraft stopping safely before any collision occurred. The incident took place on the evening of June 24 while Air India flight AI2493, operating from Mumbai to Ahmedabad, was taxiing to its assigned parking stand after landing. According to Air India and aviation sources, the aircraft made an unintended turn while taxiing toward its designated bay, entering an active taxiway instead of following its assigned route. At the same time, IndiGo flight 6E5160, scheduled to operate from Ahmedabad to Mumbai, was taxiing for departure toward the runway. The unexpected movement brought the two Airbus A320-family aircraft onto the same taxiway, leaving them positioned directly opposite each other. According to officials, Air Traffic Control immediately instructed both flight crews to stop. The aircraft came to a halt with an estimated separation of around 200 metres, ensuring that no contact occurred between them. Authorities confirmed there were no injuries to passengers or crew and no damage to either aircraft. Following the incident, the Air India aircraft was assisted back to its designated parking bay with ground support, after which the IndiGo aircraft resumed taxiing and departed safely for Mumbai. The IndiGo flight subsequently landed safely at Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport in Mumbai. In an official statement, Air India acknowledged that flight AI2493 had taken an unintended turn during taxiing after landing at Ahmedabad on June 24. "We are aware of an incident where our flight AI2493 operating from Mumbai to Ahmedabad, after landing, inadvertently took a wrong turn during taxiing. There was no compromise on the safety of passengers or crew. The aircraft was subsequently moved to the correct parking bay with ground assistance," the airline said. Air India added that the matter had been reported to the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), and an internal investigation had been initiated. IndiGo confirmed that its flight 6E5160 was taxiing for departure to Mumbai when another aircraft entered its taxi path. The airline said both aircraft were stopped immediately as a precaution in coordination with ATC. After the situation was resolved, the flight continued its departure and completed the journey safely. The Directorate General of Civil Aviation has been informed of the incident and has initiated an investigation to determine the circumstances that led to the taxiway deviation. Investigators are expected to examine the sequence of taxi instructions issued by ATC, cockpit communications, pilot adherence to taxi clearances, airport ground movement procedures and other operational factors that may have contributed to the incident. Authorities have not yet determined the cause of the wrong turn, and no findings have been released regarding whether the deviation resulted from pilot error, misunderstanding of taxi instructions, airport signage, or any other contributing factor.

Potential Ground Collision With IndiGo Aircraft Averted After Air India Taxiway Error

Aviation Today News Desk / June 26, 2026

Ahmedabad, India: A potentially serious ground incident was averted at Ahmedabad’s Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport after an Air India […]

Fort Simpson, Canada: Three people were killed after a Buffalo Airways firefighting aircraft crashed while supporting wildfire suppression efforts west of Fort Simpson in Canada's Northwest Territories, prompting a federal investigation into one of the country's latest fatal aviation accidents. The aircraft, operating as Bird Dog 104, went down approximately 50 to 55 kilometres west of Fort Simpson on June 25 while assisting crews battling an active wildfire in the Martin Hills area. Authorities confirmed that all three occupants aboard the aircraft died in the crash. Northwest Territories fire officials said the aircraft had been conducting aerial operations in support of wildfire FS009 when it crashed. The aircraft was serving in a "bird dog" role, a critical function in aerial firefighting that involves coordinating water bombers, assessing fire behaviour and directing suppression aircraft over the fire zone. The aircraft involved was identified as a Rockwell Aero Commander 690C Jetprop (Turbo Commander) bearing Canadian registration C-FNRP. Aviation records show the aircraft was operated by Buffalo Airways, the Yellowknife-based airline widely known for its cargo operations and aerial firefighting services across northern Canada. Buffalo Airways was founded in 1970 by the late Joe McBryan and has become one of Canada's best-known northern aviation operators. The privately owned airline operates cargo, charter and aerial firefighting missions, particularly in remote regions where aviation remains essential for transporting supplies, equipment and emergency personnel. Emergency responders were dispatched after reports that an aircraft supporting wildfire operations had crashed west of Fort Simpson. Due to the remote location, emergency crews worked alongside wildfire personnel to reach the accident site. The Northwest Territories Coroner Service later confirmed that all three people aboard the aircraft had died. Officials have not publicly released their identities pending notification of next of kin. The exact sequence of events leading to the crash remains unknown. Authorities have not indicated whether the crew transmitted a distress call before impact, nor have they disclosed any information regarding weather conditions, mechanical issues or operational factors that may have contributed to the accident. The Transportation Safety Board of Canada (TSB) has deployed investigators to the crash site and will examine the aircraft wreckage, maintenance records, flight history, operational procedures and environmental conditions as part of its investigation. The Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) are also assisting alongside the Northwest Territories Coroner Service. In a statement, Buffalo Airways confirmed that one of its firefighting aircraft had been involved in the fatal accident while conducting wildfire operations and said it was cooperating fully with investigators. The company said its immediate focus is supporting the families of those who lost their lives as well as its employees affected by the tragedy. Northwest Territories fire officials also expressed condolences to the victims' families, colleagues and the broader firefighting community. The accident occurred during an active wildfire season in the Northwest Territories, where aircraft play an essential role in detecting fires, coordinating aerial suppression and protecting remote communities. Bird Dog aircraft are particularly important because they guide larger airtankers to make accurate retardant and water drops while monitoring fire conditions from above. Aviation experts note that aerial firefighting is among the most demanding forms of flying, requiring crews to operate at low altitudes, often in mountainous terrain, reduced visibility, smoke and rapidly changing weather conditions. At present, investigators have not determined what caused the aircraft to crash. The Transportation Safety Board's investigation is expected to determine whether mechanical, operational, environmental or human factors contributed to the accident. Investigators will also assess aircraft performance, pilot actions and any available operational data before issuing preliminary findings.

Aircraft Crashes

Three Killed As Buffalo Airways Firefighting Plane Crashes Near Fort Simpson

Aviation Today News Desk / June 26, 2026

Fort Simpson, Canada: Three people were killed after a Buffalo Airways firefighting aircraft crashed while supporting wildfire suppression efforts west

India

FAA To Assess India’s DGCA Under Aviation Safety Oversight Review In November

Aviation Today News Desk / June 24, 2026

New Delhi, India: India’s aviation safety oversight framework will come under international scrutiny later this year as the United States

Nicholasville, United States: A Florida couple was killed after an experimental aircraft crashed into a farm in central Kentucky just minutes after departing Blue Grass Airport on Saturday, June 20, with federal investigators continuing to examine what caused the fatal accident. The victims have been identified as Brian Tonner, 72, and Karen Tonner, 71, according to the Jessamine County Coroner's Office. Coroner Michael Hughes said the married couple, both residents of Florida, were traveling home when the crash occurred on June 20. Authorities said Brian Tonner was piloting a Comp Air CA-6 experimental aircraft while Karen Tonner was onboard as a passenger. The aircraft departed Blue Grass Airport in Lexington at approximately 8:40 a.m. local time and crashed about six minutes later on a farm near Kentucky Route 169, between U.S. 27 and U.S. 68 in Jessamine County, south of Nicholasville. Emergency crews responded shortly after receiving reports of an aircraft accident in the rural area. Both occupants were pronounced dead at the scene. According to flight-tracking data, the aircraft traveled roughly 10 miles after departure and reached an altitude of approximately 3,300 feet before radar contact was lost. Investigators have not determined what caused the aircraft to go down. The aircraft involved was identified as a Comp Air CA-6, an experimental, amateur-built aircraft. Aviation records list the airplane as registration N82BT. The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) launched an investigation immediately following the crash. Investigators spent several days documenting the wreckage and collecting evidence from the crash site. The agency said investigators are reviewing multiple factors, including the pilot's flight experience, the aircraft's maintenance and operational history, weather conditions at the time of the accident, air traffic control information, radar data, and witness statements. Officials have not indicated whether the aircraft experienced a mechanical issue before impact. The NTSB said the wreckage will be transported to a secure facility for a more detailed examination once on-site documentation is completed. Witnesses reported seeing the aircraft shortly before it crashed, and investigators are continuing to gather statements and any available video footage from the area. The FAA is assisting the NTSB in the investigation. No preliminary cause has been released, and officials cautioned that determining the circumstances behind the crash could take months. A preliminary NTSB report is expected within the coming weeks, while a final report identifying the probable cause of the accident may take considerably longer. The crash remains under investigation.

Aircraft Crashes

Florida Couple Killed After Experimental Plane Crashes After Takeoff From Kentucky

Aviation Today News Desk / June 24, 2026

Nicholasville, United States: A Florida couple was killed after an experimental aircraft crashed into a farm in central Kentucky just

London, United Kingdom: British low-cost carrier easyJet has rejected a third takeover proposal from the U.S.-based investment firm Castlelake, prompting the investor to take its bid public days before a regulatory deadline that could determine whether a formal offer materializes. Castlelake's latest proposal values easyJet at approximately £4.7 billion ($6.3 billion), offering shareholders 625 pence per share in cash. The airline's board unanimously rejected the approach, describing it as "highly opportunistic" and stating that it "fundamentally undervalues easyJet and its medium-term prospects." The public disclosure marks a significant escalation in the takeover battle after weeks of private discussions and rejected proposals. According to documents released by both parties, Castlelake initially approached easyJet with a non-binding proposal of 560 pence per share. After that offer was rejected, the investment firm returned with a second proposal at 600 pence per share before ultimately increasing its offer to 625 pence per share. The latest proposal was submitted on June 20 and rejected by easyJet's board on June 21. Castlelake said it decided to go public because the airline had repeatedly declined to engage meaningfully with the firm despite multiple approaches. The company stated that the third proposal represented a substantial premium to easyJet's market value before takeover speculation emerged, arguing that shareholders should be given the opportunity to consider the proposal. In its response, easyJet said the proposal arrived during a period when the airline sector was facing temporary pressures linked to geopolitical instability and rising fuel costs. The board said, "It believes that the proposal is highly opportunistic and fundamentally undervalues easyJet and its medium-term prospects." The airline added that Castlelake's valuation relied heavily on short-term market conditions rather than the company's long-term earnings potential, strategic position, asset base and growth plans. Directors also raised concerns regarding what they described as an opaque acquisition structure, uncertainties surrounding future financing arrangements and questions about regulatory implementation. The board concluded that accepting the proposal would not be in the best interests of shareholders. Castlelake's proposal is structured as an all-cash offer for easyJet shares. The firm also included a partial alternative under which shareholders could elect to receive unlisted, non-transferable and non-voting equity interests in a Castlelake-controlled acquisition vehicle instead of cash for a portion of their holdings. According to disclosures, the proposed ownership structure would consist of: • 49% ownership by Castlelake funds. • 51% ownership by European Union nationals and other investors. The structure was designed to satisfy European airline ownership regulations, which require EU airlines to remain majority owned and controlled by EU interests. To achieve compliance, Castlelake partnered with former easyJet Chief Operating Officer Peter Bellew and aerospace executive Mark Breen, who would participate in the EU-controlled ownership arrangement. The investment firm said the structure had been specifically designed to preserve easyJet's European operating rights and regulatory approvals. easyJet, however, expressed reservations about the proposed arrangement. The airline said the structure lacked transparency and created uncertainty over who would ultimately exercise control over the carrier. The board also questioned how the ownership model would operate in practice and whether it would satisfy regulatory requirements across the jurisdictions in which easyJet operates. Castlelake rejected those concerns and said its proposal was fully compliant with applicable regulations. The investment firm stated that it had no intention of dismantling easyJet's operations and instead sought to support future growth. Castlelake said the proposed acquisition would be funded through a combination of equity and debt financing. The company disclosed that Goldman Sachs had indicated its ability to arrange the required debt facilities. The firm added that the proposal was expected to be fully funded if a formal offer proceeded. Castlelake currently manages approximately $36 billion to $38 billion in assets globally and has extensive experience investing in aviation-related businesses. Its previous aviation investments have included Scandinavian Airlines (SAS), while it has also explored opportunities involving U.S.-based carriers. Under the UK Takeover Code, Castlelake has until 5:00 p.m. on June 26, 2026, to either: • Announce a firm intention to make an offer for easyJet; or • Confirm that it does not intend to proceed. Any extension would require approval from the UK Takeover Panel. As of the latest disclosures, Castlelake stressed that no formal offer had yet been made and that there remained no certainty a definitive bid would ultimately emerge. Several major shareholders appear unconvinced that the current offer adequately reflects easyJet's value. According to reports, investors believe meaningful engagement would likely require a proposal of at least 700 pence per share, implying a valuation exceeding £5.3 billion. That figure would be roughly £600 million higher than Castlelake's current proposal. Investors point to easyJet's extensive aircraft fleet, valuable airport slots, strong balance sheet and rapidly expanding holidays division as reasons the airline should command a higher valuation. The airline has repeatedly highlighted its medium-term growth plans as justification for rejecting the proposal. easyJet believes investments in newer, more fuel-efficient aircraft, operational improvements and expansion of its holidays business could support significantly higher profitability in coming years. The company has previously outlined ambitions to generate annual profits approaching £1 billion over the longer term. Management argues that the current proposal fails to capture the value of those future earnings opportunities. Market attention has increasingly focused on easyJet founder Sir Stelios Haji-Ioannou, whose family retains approximately a 15% shareholding in the airline. While Castlelake's proposal includes mechanisms that could appeal to long-term investors, Haji-Ioannou has not publicly indicated whether he supports or opposes the bid. For now, easyJet's board remains firmly opposed to the proposal, maintaining that the airline's long-term value, growth prospects and strategic position justify a substantially higher valuation than the one currently on the table.

Airlines

EasyJet Rejects Third £4.7 Billion Takeover Bid From US Based Castlelake Firm

Aviation Today News Desk / June 23, 2026

London, United Kingdom: British low-cost carrier easyJet has rejected a third takeover proposal from the U.S.-based investment firm Castlelake, prompting

Singapore: An Indian national has been sentenced to six months in jail after molesting a Singapore Airlines flight attendant and later harassing her during a flight from Bangkok to Singapore earlier this year. The sentence was delivered by a Singapore court on June 22, 2026, bringing to a close a case that began with an in-flight incident aboard a Singapore Airlines service operating from Bangkok, Thailand, to Singapore on February 9, 2026. Akash Tiwari, 35, pleaded guilty to one charge of molestation and one charge of harassment. In addition to the jail term, the court ordered him to pay S$1,270.95 in compensation to the victim. Court records showed that he would serve an additional five days in jail if the compensation is not paid. According to court proceedings, Tiwari was travelling with four friends on the Singapore-bound flight. Prosecutors told the court that the group behaved rowdily during the journey and repeatedly waved frantically and laughed whenever female cabin crew members walked past their seats. The incident began before departure from Bangkok when a female flight attendant approached the group to confirm their meal selections. During the interaction, Tiwari stretched out his arm and brushed against the flight attendant's left upper thigh. Prosecutors said he laughed immediately afterward, while his friends also laughed at the incident. Disturbed by the behavior, the flight attendant reported the matter to the chief stewardess. To avoid further contact, she was reassigned to another aisle to continue serving passengers. However, the misconduct continued later in the flight while the flight attendant was collecting meal trays. Prosecutors said Tiwari deliberately used his left elbow to make contact with her buttock. The crew member immediately told him not to touch her. Instead of apologizing, Tiwari reportedly smirked at her. The victim became increasingly distressed and again warned him to stop. The flight attendant subsequently informed the chief stewardess, and both crew members confronted Tiwari regarding the incident. Court documents stated that he remained unapologetic and insisted he had done nothing wrong. As the aircraft began preparations for arrival in Singapore, the captain made an announcement instructing the cabin crew to prepare for landing. The flight attendant then proceeded to the galley while the chief stewardess informed her supervisor and the captain about the incident. According to prosecutors, Tiwari then followed the flight attendant into the galley area. He stood extremely close to her despite being told to stay away. When the victim attempted to create distance, he moved even closer and cornered her inside the confined space. The victim repeatedly instructed him to stop following her and to keep away. Instead, prosecutors said he persisted with the threatening behavior, causing her significant distress. The flight attendant eventually left the galley and moved into the aisle, only to discover that Tiwari was continuing to follow her. Witnesses in the cabin observed the confrontation. She sought assistance from the chief stewardess once again. By that stage, she was reportedly in tears, visibly frightened, and shaking. Following the report from the cabin crew, the flight captain notified authorities ahead of arrival. After the aircraft landed at Singapore Changi Airport, officers from the Airport Police Division conducted follow-up investigations and arrested Tiwari. Singapore Police said they were alerted to the incident at approximately 4:27 p.m. on February 9. The case first entered the court system on March 17, 2026, when Tiwari was formally charged with using criminal force to outrage the modesty of the victim and with causing harassment, alarm, or distress through threatening behavior. At the time, he indicated that he intended to contest the allegations and plead not guilty. A pre-trial conference was subsequently scheduled for March 26. Court documents alleged that Tiwari deliberately used his body to make contact with the victim's buttock area and later followed her into the galley, cornered her in the confined space, and continued pursuing her after she attempted to leave. A gag order was imposed throughout the proceedings to protect the identity of the victim. During sentencing proceedings, prosecutors highlighted Tiwari's lack of remorse, noting that he smirked when confronted and remained unapologetic despite the victim's visible distress. On June 22, 2026, the court sentenced Tiwari to six months' imprisonment and ordered compensation of S$1,270.95 to the victim, consisting of compensation for emotional trauma and related expenses. The case has drawn significant attention in Singapore because it involved misconduct against airline cabin crew while operating aboard an international commercial flight. Singapore authorities reiterated that offenders who commit acts of molestation, harassment, and threatening behavior will be dealt with firmly under the law, whether such conduct occurs on an aircraft or elsewhere.

Incidents

35-Year-Old Passenger Sentenced After Molesting Singapore Airlines Flight Attendant

Aviation Today News Desk / June 23, 2026

Singapore: An Indian national has been sentenced to six months in jail after molesting a Singapore Airlines flight attendant and

Sitka, United States: A United States Coast Guard MH-60 Jayhawk helicopter crashed during a routine training mission near Sitka, Alaska, on June 22, injuring all four crew members on board and prompting a formal investigation into the accident. The helicopter, assigned to Coast Guard Air Station Sitka, went down near Harbor Mountain, a sparsely populated area several miles outside the southeast Alaskan community of Sitka on Baranof Island. The aircraft was conducting a training flight when the crash occurred, according to Coast Guard officials. Watchstanders at the Coast Guard Arctic District command center received notification of the crash at approximately 10:07 a.m. local time. Emergency responders, including Sitka Fire and Rescue personnel, were immediately dispatched to the scene. Rescue crews arrived at approximately 11:00 a.m. and evacuated all four crew members to Mt. Edgecumbe Medical Center for treatment. No fatalities were reported. Initial reports described the extent of the injuries as unknown. However, Coast Guard officials later confirmed that all four crew members survived and sustained minor injuries. “We are incredibly relieved our crew members survived with only minor injuries,” Rear Adm. Bob Little, commander of the Coast Guard Arctic District, said in a statement. The Coast Guard identified the aircraft as an MH-60 Jayhawk, the service's primary long-range search-and-rescue helicopter. The helicopter is a military-operated aircraft owned and operated by the U.S. Coast Guard and is routinely used for search-and-rescue missions, medical evacuations, law enforcement operations, and training exercises throughout Alaska and other coastal regions. Officials have not released the identities of the four crew members involved in the accident. Petty Officer Ashly Murphy confirmed that the helicopter was conducting a routine training flight at the time of the crash. In its initial statement, the Coast Guard said: “The safety, well-being, and rescue of our crew members is our absolute, immediate priority. The cause of the incident is not yet known. A formal investigation will be conducted to determine the circumstances surrounding the event.” Authorities have not disclosed what led to the crash. There has been no indication of mechanical failure, weather-related factors, operational issues, or human factors, and investigators have not announced any preliminary findings. The accident occurred near Harbor Mountain, a rugged area overlooking Sitka. The region is known for challenging aviation conditions, mountainous terrain, coastal weather systems, fjords, and remote operating environments frequently encountered by Coast Guard aircrews. Following the crash, the Coast Guard said it would conduct a formal investigation to determine the circumstances surrounding the accident. The incident marks the latest serious aviation accident in the United States during June and comes as federal and military investigators continue examining several other recent aircraft crashes across the country.

Aircraft Crashes

Four Survive After US Coast Guard MH-60 Jayhawk Crashes Near Sitka During Training

Aviation Today News Desk / June 23, 2026

Sitka, United States: A United States Coast Guard MH-60 Jayhawk helicopter crashed during a routine training mission near Sitka, Alaska,

New Mexico, United States: The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has released its preliminary findings into the fatal crash of a medevac Beechcraft King Air C90 in New Mexico, revealing that the crew experienced a loss of GPS navigation capability while military GPS jamming operations were active in the region. The accident occurred shortly after midnight on May 14, 2026, near Lincoln, New Mexico. The aircraft, registration N249CP, was operating as an air ambulance flight under Part 135 regulations. The flight was being conducted by Generations Jets on behalf of Trans Aero Medical Services. All four people aboard the aircraft, two pilots and two flight nurses were killed. The aircraft was destroyed by impact forces and a post-crash fire. According to the NTSB, the flight departed Roswell Air Center at approximately 11:52 p.m. local time on May 13 and was headed to Sierra Blanca Regional Airport in Ruidoso to pick up a patient for transport to Albuquerque. Investigators found that military GPS jamming activities were underway during the flight and encompassed the route being flown. Shortly after departure, the crew informed Albuquerque Air Route Traffic Control Center that the aircraft had lost GPS capability and requested heading guidance from controllers. The crew initially planned to fly the RNAV (GPS) approach into Ruidoso but later requested the ILS Runway 24 approach after losing satellite-based navigation. During the same period, several other aircraft in the region also reported GPS disruptions, with one pilot requiring additional assistance to identify a ground-based navigation aid. Air traffic controllers contacted military authorities and requested that GPS jamming be suspended. Controllers subsequently provided radar vectors toward the airport. At approximately 12:08 a.m., while about 31 miles northeast of Ruidoso, the flight crew reported that they had the airport area in sight and could proceed visually. Controllers cleared the aircraft for a visual approach and advised that the crew could cancel IFR once established. No further communications were received from the aircraft. Flight tracking data showed the aircraft turning southwest toward Sierra Blanca Regional Airport and beginning its descent. The route crossed the Capitan Mountains, a rugged terrain area with peaks exceeding 10,000 feet. The aircraft descended to roughly 9,400 feet before initiating a slight climb. The final recorded position placed the airplane at about 9,823 feet and traveling approximately 150 knots. Seconds later, the aircraft struck terrain at an elevation of about 9,950 feet near the Capitan Mountains Summit Radio Facility. The impact occurred only a few hundred feet from the aircraft's final recorded position and triggered a post-crash fire that later spread into a forest fire. The preliminary report also revealed that pilots had been provided notices warning of GPS interference before departure. The flight briefing package contained a NOTAM advising that GPS, WAAS, GBAS and ADS-B services could be unavailable across a large area of New Mexico due to military operations. Additional notices indicated that Sierra Blanca Regional Airport's automated weather observation system was out of service. Investigators noted that no METAR or TAF weather reports were available for the airport at the time of the accident. The NTSB emphasized that the report is preliminary and that no probable cause has yet been determined. Investigators continue to examine the role of GPS interference, flight crew actions, navigation challenges, terrain clearance and other operational factors. A final report establishing the probable cause of the accident is expected following completion of the investigation.

Investigation

NTSB Preliminary Report Details GPS Interference Before Fatal New Mexico Medevac Crash

Aviation Today News Desk / June 19, 2026

New Mexico, United States: The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has released its preliminary findings into the fatal crash of

Tokyo, Japan: A British Airways flight preparing to depart Tokyo Haneda Airport for London Heathrow was forced to return to its parking stand on Thursday, June 18, after a passenger's smartphone caught fire while the aircraft was taxiing for takeoff. According to Japan's Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism (MLIT), smoke was reported from the cabin at approximately 1:10 p.m. local time. The aircraft was operating a scheduled British Airways service from Tokyo Haneda Airport (HND) to London Heathrow Airport (LHR). Japanese transport officials said the smartphone is believed to have belonged to a passenger. Cabin crew responded immediately and extinguished the fire using onboard firefighting equipment before airport emergency personnel became involved. The aircraft returned to its stand where firefighters and airline personnel carried out safety inspections. No injuries were reported among the 211 passengers and crew members on board. Authorities said the incident occurred while the aircraft was taxiing for departure and had not yet taken off. Following inspections and confirmation that the situation was under control, the flight later departed after a delay of approximately one hour. The event marks the second British Airways lithium-battery-related cabin fire incident reported within days. On June 15, British Airways Flight BA271 from London Heathrow to Las Vegas experienced a cellphone fire while crossing the Atlantic. Air traffic control recordings captured the crew reporting that the device had "scorched the inside of the cabin," although the fire was quickly contained. The Boeing 787-9 landed safely at Harry Reid International Airport in Las Vegas and no injuries were reported. Airlines and regulators have increasingly strengthened guidance on the carriage and handling of lithium battery-powered devices following a growing number of onboard battery-related incidents in recent years. Japanese authorities have not released additional details regarding the smartphone involved, including its manufacturer or model, and no investigation findings have yet been announced.

Incidents

Passenger Smartphone Fire Forces British Airways Flight Back To Parking Stand In Tokyo

Aviation Today News Desk / June 19, 2026

Tokyo, Japan: A British Airways flight preparing to depart Tokyo Haneda Airport for London Heathrow was forced to return to

Paringa, New Zealand: A loose maintenance bolt that detached during flight caused an Airbus AS350BA helicopter to become increasingly difficult to control before it crashed near the Paringa River mouth on New Zealand's West Coast, according to final findings released by the Transport Accident Investigation Commission (TAIC). The accident occurred on July 20, 2024, while an Amuri Helicopters Airbus AS350BA, registration ZK-HJM, was being flown from Queenstown to Franz Josef following maintenance work performed at Queenstown Aerodrome. The helicopter was carrying a pilot and one passenger. Both occupants sustained minor injuries and were transported to hospital, while the aircraft suffered substantial damage. According to the investigation, engineers from Salus Aviation had swapped the helicopter's left and right hydraulic servo actuators during scheduled maintenance. However, a critical securing bolt on the lower attachment point of the left-hand hydraulic servo actuator was not properly secured before the aircraft was returned to service. Investigators determined that the associated nut had not been tightened to the required torque and that a locking pin was either missing or incorrectly installed. Although the work was subject to a mandatory duplicate inspection by a second engineer, the defect went undetected. Approximately 52 minutes into the flight, the pilot felt a sudden jolt and observed abnormal main rotor blade tracking. Seven minutes later, concerned by the abnormal indications, the pilot initiated a precautionary landing. During the descent, cyclic control forces increased significantly, particularly when attempting left control inputs. As the helicopter descended to between three and seven metres above the ground, it rolled and collided with terrain before coming to rest on its left side. TAIC found that the securing bolt eventually detached completely during the flight, significantly limiting the pilot's control of the helicopter. The investigation identified several human-factor issues that contributed to the maintenance error. The engineer responsible for the task was reportedly distracted by both a customer interaction and a hydraulic fluid spill while performing the work. Investigators also found the engineer was working under time pressure ahead of a planned holiday and did not sufficiently verify the maintenance task before completion. The second engineer responsible for the duplicate safety inspection also failed to identify the improperly secured hardware. The engineer told investigators they could not explain why the defect was missed but acknowledged experiencing broken sleep at the time, which may have affected performance. Following the accident, Salus Aviation conducted an internal investigation and implemented a series of corrective actions. The company temporarily removed the involved engineers from release-to-service inspection duties, introduced additional training, strengthened inspection and documentation procedures, implemented independent post-maintenance inspections, and established regular assurance audits. Measures aimed at reducing workplace distractions and improving engineering oversight were also introduced. TAIC concluded that the maintenance provider had adequately addressed the safety deficiencies identified during the investigation. As a result, the Commission did not issue any formal safety recommendations.

Investigation

Loose Bolt Left Undetected During Inspection Caused New Zealand Airbus AS350 Crash

Aviation Today News Desk / June 19, 2026

Paringa, New Zealand: A loose maintenance bolt that detached during flight caused an Airbus AS350BA helicopter to become increasingly difficult

aviation news

Potential Ground Collision With IndiGo Aircraft Averted After Air India Taxiway Error

Three Killed As Buffalo Airways Firefighting Plane Crashes Near Fort Simpson

FAA To Assess India’s DGCA Under Aviation Safety Oversight Review In November

Florida Couple Killed After Experimental Plane Crashes After Takeoff From Kentucky

EasyJet Rejects Third £4.7 Billion Takeover Bid From US Based Castlelake Firm

35-Year-Old Passenger Sentenced After Molesting Singapore Airlines Flight Attendant

Four Survive After US Coast Guard MH-60 Jayhawk Crashes Near Sitka During Training

NTSB Preliminary Report Details GPS Interference Before Fatal New Mexico Medevac Crash

Passenger Smartphone Fire Forces British Airways Flight Back To Parking Stand In Tokyo

Loose Bolt Left Undetected During Inspection Caused New Zealand Airbus AS350 Crash

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