Man dies after being pulled into jet engine on runway
Aircraft involved was bound for Spain with over 150 passengers
DUBAI: A 30-year-old man died on Tuesday morning after being sucked into the engine of a commercial aircraft preparing for departure from a major Italian airport.
Authorities confirmed that the victim was neither a passenger nor an airport employee.
The fatal incident occurred at approximately 10:20 am local time as a Volotea Airlines Airbus A319 was taxiing for take-off to Asturias, Spain. According to media reports, the man gained unauthorised access to the runway, running towards the aircraft before being pulled into one of its engines. Emergency crews were dispatched immediately but the man was pronounced dead at the scene.
As a result of the incident, the airport temporarily suspended flight operations, leading to the cancellation of 19 flights and significant delays across the terminal.
Investigation continues
Officials have launched an investigation into how the individual bypassed security at Il Caravaggio International Airport (also known as Milan Bergamo Airport). Local media reported that the man abandoned his car near the terminal before entering an arrivals area on foot and passing through a security door that led directly to the tarmac.
No details have been released regarding the man's identity or motive. Law enforcement is continuing to review surveillance footage and interview witnesses.
Airline confirms details
In a public statement, Volotea Airlines confirmed that its flight V7-3511, carrying 154 passengers and six crew members, was involved. No one onboard the aircraft was injured. The airline expressed regret over the incident and said it is cooperating fully with authorities.
Flights resume
Flight operations resumed at around noon after a two-hour suspension.
SACBO comunica che le operazioni di volo all’aeroporto di Milano Bergamo sono rimaste sospese dalle ore 10:20 alle 12:00...
Posted by Milan Bergamo Airport on Tuesday, July 8, 2025
The airport operator, SACBO, described the incident as a “problem on the taxiway” in its initial update and said further information will be released as investigations proceed.