Delta 757 Clips Parked Aircraft at Atlanta Airport

A Delta Air Lines Boeing 757 clipped an unoccupied aircraft during pushback from the gate at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) on Sunday morning, delaying its scheduled departure to Guatemala City (GUA).

The aircraft, carrying 192 passengers, two pilots, and four flight attendants, was moving back from the gate when its wingtip made contact with the parked plane. Delta confirmed that no injuries occurred, and the flight crew immediately halted operations. Ground crews inspected the aircraft to assess any damage, and the jet was taken out of service for further checks.

Passengers were transferred to a replacement aircraft to continue their journey, arriving in Guatemala City later than planned. Delta emphasized that established safety protocols were followed and that the airline prioritizes operational safety in all ground handling procedures, including pushback and taxi operations.

Pushback incidents are uncommon but can occur due to limited ramp space, poor visibility, or high congestion. Atlanta, the world’s busiest airport by passenger traffic, requires highly coordinated efforts between pilots, ramp agents, and air traffic control to maintain safe movements.

The incident comes just months after a similar event at Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA) on April 10, 2025, when two American Airlines regional jets clipped wings while preparing for departure. Both aircraft sustained damage but reported no injuries, and passengers were rebooked on later flights.

Delta has assured affected customers that it is handling the matter with transparency and efficiency while working to minimize disruptions to travel schedules.

Sources: AirGuide Business airguide.info, bing.com, aviationa2z.com