A ground crew member was hospitalized after being struck by an American Airlines Boeing 787 at Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) while the aircraft was taxiing towards the gate. The incident, captured in a video shared by aviation insider JonNYC, shows the individual being hit by the aircraft, which was moving at speed. Reports indicate that the employee is currently in intensive care.
The American Airlines Dreamliner was taxiing after arriving at DFW when the unfortunate collision occurred. The role of a wing walker typically involves guiding aircraft safely to their designated parking spots, ensuring that the aircraft does not collide with any obstacles during the process. In this instance, it remains unclear why the ground crew member was in the path of the moving airplane.
Witnesses captured the moment on video, showing the wing walker walking directly into the path of the aircraft’s engine. After the aircraft passed, the video reveals the individual lying on the apron, prompting immediate concern from those present. Reactions on social media highlight the shock experienced by onlookers at the scene.
Gary Leff, a well-known aviation commentator, addressed the incident, noting the risks associated with ground operations. He emphasized that ground crew are expected to remain outside exclusion zones around moving aircraft, particularly when engines are running. The expectation is that these personnel will serve as an additional set of eyes, ensuring the safety of both the aircraft and those on the ground.
As investigations continue, Simple Flying has reached out to American Airlines for further details, but the airline has not yet issued an official comment. The publication has pledged to update readers as more information becomes available but will refrain from speculation regarding the circumstances of the accident.
In light of this incident, the aviation community is reminded of the critical safety protocols designed to protect ground staff. DFW is among the busiest airports in the United States and serves as a major hub for American Airlines. The airport, located between Dallas and Fort Worth, encompasses six terminals and 224 gates.
American Airlines operates a substantial number of flights from DFW, serving 174 destinations with its mainline fleet and an additional 125 destinations through its regional partner, American Eagle. According to the Bureau of Transportation Statistics, American Airlines accounted for over two-thirds of all flight operations at DFW between March 2024 and February 2025, serving more than 47.8 million passengers during that period.
As the aviation industry continues to prioritize safety, this incident serves as a stark reminder of the potential dangers faced by ground crew members and the importance of adhering to established safety procedures. The Simple Flying team wishes a swift recovery to the injured individual and looks forward to further details from ongoing investigations.
