Commercial Aviation
Breeze and ANA Jets Collide on Ground at Charleston Airport
A taxiing ANA Boeing 787-10 clipped a parked Breeze A220-300 at Charleston Airport, causing minor injuries and FAA investigation.
The tail of a Breeze Airways Airbus A220-300 aircraft was struck by a taxiing All Nippon Airways (ANA) Boeing 787-10 Dreamliner at Charleston International Airport (CHS) on the evening of July 18, 2025, resulting in minor injuries to two individuals and significant operational disruptions. This incident occurred while the Breeze Airways flight MX509, diverted from its Las Vegas to Norfolk route due to thunderstorms, was parked and awaiting refueling around 9:49 p.m. ET. The collision represents the latest in a series of ground safety incidents at U.S. airports, occurring against a backdrop of heightened aviation safety scrutiny following multiple high-profile near-misses and the fatal January 2025 Potomac River midair collision that killed 67 people. Charleston International Airport, South Carolina’s busiest aviation facility and a focus city for Breeze Airways, hosts significant Boeing Manufacturing operations, adding industrial complexity to its airfield operations. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) investigators are examining multiple contributing factors including weather-related diversions, ground control procedures, and aircraft taxiing protocols during nighttime operations.
The incident began with Breeze Airways flight MX509 diverting to Charleston due to severe thunderstorms obstructing its original route. Upon safe landing, the Airbus A220-300 was directed to a parking position to await refueling. Meanwhile, a newly manufactured ANA Boeing 787-10, originating from Boeing’s nearby assembly plant, was conducting ground movements. At approximately 9:49 p.m., the 787-10’s right wingtip struck the tail of the stationary A220-300.
The impact occurred in the southeast ramp area, a zone known for its operational complexity due to proximity to both commercial gates and Boeing’s industrial facilities. The ANA aircraft was reportedly being maneuvered for delivery preparation, a common occurrence at CHS given Boeing’s presence.
Both aircraft sustained structural damage, with the ANA’s wingtip and the Breeze jet’s vertical stabilizer affected. The A220’s empennage, critical for flight control, absorbed the brunt of the collision forces, prompting immediate grounding for inspection and repair.
Emergency services responded swiftly. Two individuals were evaluated for minor injuries but were not hospitalized. All passengers aboard the Breeze flight were safely deplaned. The ANA aircraft had no passengers, as it was not yet in commercial service.
Charleston County Aviation Authority and local fire teams established safety perimeters and temporarily halted nearby taxiway operations. The incident did not result in wider airport closures, thanks to its location away from primary runways.
By early morning on July 19, Breeze had arranged a recovery flight to Norfolk, minimizing passenger disruption. The damaged aircraft remained at CHS pending FAA and NTSB inspection.
Following the incident, Breeze Airways issued a statement confirming their aircraft was stationary and properly parked. ANA acknowledged the incident involved one of their aircraft undergoing post-production testing. Boeing, which manages 787 production at CHS, initiated an internal review of taxi procedures. The FAA began an investigation focusing on ground control communication, aircraft clearance protocols, and lighting conditions. Investigators are also examining whether weather-related diversions contributed to ramp congestion and operational confusion.
The A220-300 will require significant repair work, particularly to its composite tail structure. Technicians estimate several thousand labor hours for full restoration, based on Airbus repair guidelines.
The A220-300 is a modern narrow-body jet designed for efficiency and comfort. It features a 38.7-meter fuselage, 35.1-meter wingspan, and can seat up to 150 passengers. Its range of over 6,000 kilometers suits medium-haul routes like Las Vegas to Norfolk.
Equipped with Pratt & Whitney PW1500G engines, the A220-300 is known for fuel efficiency and low noise. Breeze Airways, founded in 2021, adopted the A220 as a cornerstone of its fleet strategy, emphasizing cost-effective operations on underserved routes.
The aircraft involved in the incident had been in service since late 2023 and had accumulated approximately 2,500 flight hours. It features a T-tail design, making the vertical stabilizer particularly vulnerable in ground collisions involving taller aircraft.
The 787-10 is the largest variant of Boeing’s Dreamliner family, measuring 68.3 meters in length with a wingspan of 60.1 meters. It typically carries 318 to 336 passengers and is designed for long-haul international service.
The aircraft involved was newly assembled at Boeing’s North Charleston facility and was undergoing post-production taxi checks. Its raked wingtips, designed for aerodynamic efficiency, extend further than traditional wings, increasing the risk of ground contact in tight ramp areas.
With a height of 17 meters, the 787-10 towers over smaller aircraft like the A220, which stands 11.5 meters tall. This height disparity likely played a role in the collision geometry that led to the impact with the A220’s tail. Charleston International Airport serves both civilian and military operations, sharing its airfield with Joint Base Charleston. In 2023, it handled over 6.1 million passengers, making it the busiest airport in South Carolina.
Its strategic importance is amplified by Boeing’s 787 Dreamliner assembly plant, which spans 265 acres adjacent to the airfield. This setup creates an unusual mix of commercial, military, and industrial aviation traffic.
Breeze Airways has designated CHS as a focus city, further increasing traffic volume and operational complexity. The airline maintains maintenance and crew facilities on-site.
In the past 18 months, CHS has seen at least three notable ground incidents. One in January 2024 involved a Boeing-owned 787 and a ground vehicle, resulting in property damage but no injuries.
These incidents highlight the challenges of managing mixed-use airfields with high volumes of aircraft movement. The July 18 collision adds to this pattern, emphasizing the need for improved ramp safety protocols.
The airport’s layout includes intersecting taxiways and limited visibility zones, particularly problematic during nighttime operations and adverse weather conditions.
Boeing’s facility at CHS is a major economic driver but also introduces operational risks. Newly built aircraft frequently taxi between production and delivery areas, sharing space with commercial jets.
This environment demands heightened coordination between ground control, airline operations, and manufacturing logistics. The July 18 incident illustrates how even minor missteps in this ecosystem can lead to significant consequences. As Boeing continues to ramp up production of the 787, the volume of ground movements involving wide-body aircraft is expected to increase, necessitating more robust safety measures.
In response to a rise in surface incidents, the FAA introduced the Surface Safety Risk Index (SSRI) in 2024. This model assesses potential injury severity based on collision geometry and other factors.
Charleston’s July 18 event may prompt reevaluation of its risk profile under the SSRI framework. While CHS is not currently on the FAA’s high-risk list, its unique operational environment could warrant inclusion.
Technological upgrades like Enhanced Taxiway Centerlines and Surface Movement Radar have been implemented, but these primarily target runway incursions, not ramp area collisions like the one involving Breeze and ANA.
Similar incidents have occurred at other Airports. In February 2025, a Japan Airlines 787 clipped the tail of a Delta 737 at Seattle-Tacoma International Airport. No injuries were reported, but the event raised concerns about ground clearance protocols.
These cases suggest a trend of wide-body aircraft encountering clearance issues in congested ramp environments. The combination of larger aircraft and limited ramp space increases collision risk.
Industry analysts have called for better integration of ground movement data and predictive analytics to prevent such incidents, especially during peak traffic or adverse weather conditions.
Air traffic controller shortages, aging infrastructure, and rising passenger volumes all contribute to increased ground incident risks. As of 2024, the U.S. faced a shortage of over 3,000 controllers nationwide. Captain Jason Ambrosi of the Air Line Pilots Association has emphasized the need for more investment in ramp area surveillance and wingtip clearance technologies. These are currently lacking at many airports.
Experts agree that while runway safety has improved, ramp and taxiway operations remain a blind spot. The Charleston collision may serve as a catalyst for broader regulatory changes in this area.
The Charleston incident underscores the need to rethink how ground safety is managed at complex airports. While no serious injuries occurred, the potential for greater harm was present and cannot be ignored.
Key recommendations include mandating wingtip clearance systems for wide-body aircraft, enhancing ramp lighting, and establishing dedicated zones for diverted flights. These steps could significantly reduce the risk of future collisions in similar environments.
What caused the Charleston aircraft collision? Were there any injuries? Is Charleston International Airport considered a high-risk facility? ABC News 4, FAA Runway Safety, Boeing 787 Specifications, Airbus A220 Overview, Breeze Airways, Charleston International Airport
Commercial-Aircraft jet tail wing clipped at Charleston International Airport Friday night
Detailed chronology of the collision event
Sequence of Events
Injuries and Response
Aftermath and Recovery
Technical specifications and operational context of involved aircraft
Breeze Airways Airbus A220-300
ANA Boeing 787-10 Dreamliner
Charleston International Airport operational environment
Historical Background and Significance
Recent Safety Incidents at CHS
Boeing’s Presence and Impact
Aviation ground safety trends and regulatory context
Runway Safety and FAA Initiatives
Analysis of Similar Incidents Nationwide
Industry Challenges and Expert Opinions
Conclusion and safety recommendations
FAQ
A taxiing ANA Boeing 787-10 struck the tail of a parked Breeze Airways Airbus A220-300 due to clearance misjudgment during nighttime operations.
Two individuals were evaluated for minor injuries but did not require hospitalization.
While not currently on the FAA’s high-risk list, the airport’s mixed-use operations and industrial traffic may prompt reevaluation.
Sources
Photo Credit: FL360Aero
Aircraft Orders & Deliveries
EgyptAir Receives First Airbus A350-900 to Modernize Fleet
EgyptAir accepts its first Airbus A350-900, starting a fleet overhaul with 16 aircraft to expand long-haul routes and improve efficiency.
This article is based on an official press release from Airbus and additional fleet data.
EgyptAir has officially taken delivery of its first Airbus A350-900, registered as SU-GGE, marking a significant milestone in the carrier’s modernization strategy. The handover, which took place on February 9, 2026, positions the Cairo-based airline as the first operator of the A350-900 in North Africa.
According to an official press release from Airbus, this aircraft is the first of 16 A350-900s ordered by the Egyptian flag carrier. The delivery underscores EgyptAir’s commitment to phasing out older wide-body jets while expanding its long-haul network capabilities to new destinations in North America and Asia.
The arrival of the A350-900 represents a pivotal shift in EgyptAir’s long-haul operations. The airline originally signed for 10 aircraft during the Dubai Airshow in November 2023, later expanding the commitment with a top-up order for six additional units. These new airframes are intended to replace the carrier’s aging Boeing 777-300ER fleet, offering improved operating economics and passenger comfort.
In a statement regarding the initial order, Yehia Zakaria, EgyptAir Holding Chairman and CEO, highlighted the flagship status of the new type:
“The A350-900 will be our flagship aircraft… adding the world’s most modern and efficient widebody aircraft to our fleet will be instrumental in expanding our offering.”
Christian Scherer, Chief Commercial Officer at Airbus, noted the economic advantages the aircraft brings to the airline’s network:
“The A350 is the one and only aircraft enabling EgyptAir to open up its network with benchmark economic efficiency, not to mention passenger comfort.”
EgyptAir has outlined a phased entry-into-service plan for the new fleet. Initially, the aircraft will be deployed on trunk routes to London and Paris to facilitate crew familiarization. Following this integration period, the airline plans to leverage the A350’s 9,700 nautical mile range to launch non-stop services to the U.S. West Coast and key Asian markets, including Shanghai, Beijing, and Tokyo.
The new A350-900 features a two-class configuration designed to maximize capacity while introducing updated premium amenities. According to fleet data, the aircraft accommodates a total of 340 passengers. Technological upgrades are a focal point of the new cabin. The aircraft is equipped with Panasonic Avionics’ Astrova in-flight entertainment system, providing 4K OLED screens and high-fidelity audio. Additionally, passengers across all classes will have access to USB-C fast charging ports and high-speed Wi-Fi connectivity.
The transition to the A350-900 aligns with broader industry sustainability goals. Powered by two Rolls-Royce Trent XWB engines, the aircraft is reported to burn 25% less fuel compared to the previous generation aircraft it replaces. This efficiency gain corresponds to a 25% reduction in CO2 emissions.
Furthermore, the A350 is recognized as the quietest aircraft in its class, possessing a noise footprint 50% smaller than older jets, a critical factor for operations at noise-sensitive airports in Europe and North America.
EgyptAir’s delivery secures its position as the sole active operator of the A350-900 in the North African region, a status solidified by the shifting strategies of its neighbors. While other carriers in the region had previously expressed interest in the type, market dynamics have led to cancellations and delays.
For instance, Air Algérie cancelled its order for A350-1000s in early 2025, opting instead for Airbus A330-900neos. Similarly, Tunisair cancelled its A350 commitments in 2013. Other regional orders, such as those from Libyan carriers Afriqiyah Airways and Libyan Airlines, remain stalled due to long-standing instability. Consequently, EgyptAir currently faces no direct regional competition operating this specific airframe, potentially offering it a product advantage on competitive routes connecting Africa to Europe and the Americas.
Sources:
EgyptAir Accepts Delivery of First Airbus A350-900, Initiating Major Fleet Overhaul
Fleet Modernization and Strategic Expansion
Operational Deployment
Cabin Configuration and Passenger Experience
Environmental Performance
AirPro News Analysis: Regional Market Context
Airbus Press Release
Photo Credit: Airbus
Route Development
SAS and TAROM Codeshare Connects Scandinavia and Romania in 2026
SAS and TAROM announce a codeshare agreement effective February 2026, enhancing connectivity between Scandinavia and Romania with SkyTeam benefits.
This article is based on an official press release from SAS Group.
Scandinavian Airlines (SAS) and TAROM, the flag carrier of Romania, have announced a comprehensive codeshare agreement set to commence on February 9, 2026. The partnership aims to restore and enhance connectivity between Northern Europe and Romania following SAS’s strategic shift to the SkyTeam alliance.
According to the official announcement from SAS Group, the agreement will allow passengers to book single-ticket journeys between the two regions by utilizing major European transit hubs. This move integrates TAROM, a long-standing SkyTeam member, more deeply with SAS, which officially joined the alliance on September 1, 2024.
The collaboration addresses a significant gap in network connectivity, offering business and leisure travelers seamless baggage check-through and reciprocal loyalty benefits. Paul Verhagen, EVP & Chief Commercial Officer at SAS, emphasized the strategic value of the deal in a statement:
“This new partnership with TAROM marks an important step in enhancing connectivity between Scandinavia and Romania. By combining our networks and offering smooth transfers via key European hubs, we are giving our customers more choice, flexibility, and convenience.”
Rather than launching direct flights immediately, the airlines are leveraging a “virtual hub” strategy. According to the press release, the codeshare will route traffic through four key intermediate airports: Amsterdam (AMS), Brussels (BRU), Frankfurt (FRA), and Prague (PRG).
Under the terms of the agreement:
This structure allows the airlines to offer competitive travel times and frequency without dedicating aircraft to direct point-to-point routes, which are currently dominated by low-cost carriers.
This agreement is a direct consequence of the major airline alliance realignment that occurred in late 2024. When SAS departed Star Alliance to join SkyTeam, it lost its traditional connectivity to Eastern Europe provided by partners like Lufthansa and Austrian Airlines. Partnering with TAROM allows SAS to rebuild its footprint in the region using SkyTeam infrastructure.
For TAROM, the deal unlocks access to the high-yield Scandinavian market. The Romanian carrier is currently in the midst of a fleet modernization program, transitioning from aging aircraft to new Boeing 737 MAX 8 jets expected to arrive in late 2025 and 2026. By utilizing SAS for the northern leg of the journey, TAROM can expand its network reach while conserving its own metal for other high-demand routes. Narcis Obeadă, Commercial Director at TAROM, hinted at further expansion in the company’s statement:
“In the coming period, TAROM will announce new commercial agreements, in line with the company’s mission to safely and efficiently connect Romania and Romanian culture to the international air transport network.”
Travelers utilizing the codeshare will benefit from the full suite of SkyTeam alliance perks. Members of SAS EuroBonus and TAROM’s loyalty program will be able to earn and redeem points on these codeshare flights. Additionally, premium passengers will gain access to SkyTeam lounges at transit hubs.
The passenger experience on the SAS leg of these journeys is also set for an upgrade. SAS is currently rolling out free high-speed Starlink WiFi across its fleet, a project the airline states will be widely available by late 2025.
The “Prague” Anomaly and Market Positioning
The inclusion of Prague (PRG) as a connection hub is a notable operational detail. Following the cessation of operations by Czech Airlines (CSA) as a standalone SkyTeam member in October 2024, Prague is no longer a primary alliance hub. The decision to route traffic through PRG suggests a strong bilateral interline capability between SAS and TAROM that functions independently of major alliance hub infrastructure.
Furthermore, this deal clearly targets the premium business segment. While low-cost carrier Wizz Air operates direct flights between Bucharest and Copenhagen, legacy carriers cannot compete purely on price. Instead, SAS and TAROM are competing on schedule flexibility (multiple daily frequencies via hubs) and corporate perks (lounge access, baggage interlining). With tourism to Romania rising, foreign arrivals were up 13.4% year-on-year as of August 2024, the demand for reliable, full-service connectivity is likely to grow.
When can I book these codeshare flights? Will my bags be checked through to the final destination? Do these flights count toward SkyTeam Elite status?
SAS and TAROM Launch Strategic Codeshare to Connect Scandinavia and Romania
Operational Details: The Virtual Hub Strategy
RO marketing code on SAS flights connecting Copenhagen, Oslo, and Stockholm to these intermediate hubs.SK marketing code on TAROM flights connecting Bucharest to the same hubs.Strategic Context: The SkyTeam Realignment
Passenger Experience and Loyalty
AirPro News Analysis
Frequently Asked Questions
The codeshare agreement is effective starting February 9, 2026. Tickets should be available through both airlines’ booking channels prior to this date.
Yes. Because this is a full codeshare agreement, passengers traveling on a single ticket (e.g., Bucharest to Stockholm via Amsterdam) will have their baggage checked through to the final destination.
Yes. Flights marketed and operated by SkyTeam members (SAS and TAROM) count toward tier status and accrue redeemable miles/points according to the rules of your specific loyalty program.
Sources
Photo Credit: SAS Group
Route Development
Starlux Airlines Launches Taipei to Prague Flights in 2026
Starlux Airlines will begin nonstop service between Taipei and Prague in August 2026, featuring its exclusive First Class on the Airbus A350-900.
This article summarizes reporting by One Mile at a Time and Ben Schlappig.
Starlux Airlines, the Taiwan-based luxury carrier, has officially announced its expansion into the European market. According to reporting by One Mile at a Time, the airline will launch nonstop service between Taipei (TPE) and Prague (PRG) beginning August 1, 2026. This development marks a major milestone for the “boutique” airline, representing its first long-haul destination outside of North America.
The new route signals a strategic shift for Starlux, which has previously focused its long-haul efforts exclusively on transpacific flights to the United States. By deploying its flagship Airbus A350-900 aircraft on this sector, the airline intends to compete directly with legacy carriers by offering a premium-heavy configuration, including its exclusive First Class cabin.
Based on schedule data cited by One Mile at a Time and confirmed by Prague Airport, the service will initially operate three times weekly. The flights are scheduled for Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays, with plans to increase frequency to four times weekly by adding Mondays starting in October 2026.
The operational schedule is as follows:
Jiří Pos, Chairman of the Board of Directors at Prague Airport, welcomed the new connection in a statement regarding the launch.
“We estimate that the route will be used by approximately 95,000 passengers in the first year of operation.”
, Jiří Pos, Chairman of Prague Airport
Travelers on this route will experience Starlux’s most premium hardware. One Mile at a Time notes that the Airbus A350-900 is the only aircraft type in the Starlux fleet equipped with a First Class cabin. The aircraft features a total of 306 seats across four distinct classes:
This deployment is significant because it brings a true First Class product to the Taipei-Prague market, distinguishing Starlux from competitors that may only offer Business Class on similar routes.
While major European hubs like London Heathrow or Paris Charles de Gaulle are often the first ports of call for Asian carriers expanding westward, Starlux’s choice of Prague is driven by specific economic factors rather than traditional tourism volume alone. The Semiconductor Connection “Prague is a long-favored destination for Taiwanese travelers, and growing semiconductor industry ties are expected to further drive demand…”
, Glenn Chai, CEO of Starlux Airlines
Competitive Landscape According to the reporting by Ben Schlappig, this route is likely just the beginning of Starlux’s European ambitions. The airline has indicated plans to launch a second European destination later in 2026. While not officially confirmed, industry reports suggest Milan (MXP) is a strong contender, which would align with the carrier’s Strategy of connecting high-value fashion and business hubs.
Starlux Airlines Selects Prague for First European Route
Flight Schedule and Operational Details
Onboard Experience: The Airbus A350-900
AirPro News Analysis: Strategic Market Positioning
We observe that the economic ties between Taiwan and the Czech Republic have deepened significantly due to the semiconductor industry. With major investments from Taiwanese tech giants in Central Europe, business travel demand is high. Starlux CEO Glenn Chai highlighted this synergy in his remarks regarding the Launch.
Starlux will face direct competition from China Airlines, which launched the same route in July 2023. However, Starlux appears to be betting on its “luxury boutique” brand identity to capture high-yield business travelers and premium leisure tourists who prioritize cabin comfort and newer aircraft hardware.
Future European Expansion
Frequently Asked Questions
Photo Credit: Starlux Airlines
-
Commercial Aviation3 days agoAirbus Nears Launch of Stretched A350 Variant to Compete with Boeing 777X
-
Aircraft Orders & Deliveries4 days agoHarbor Diversified Sells Air Wisconsin Assets for $113.2 Million
-
Defense & Military2 days agoApogee Aerospace Signs $420M Deal for Albatross Amphibious Aircraft
-
MRO & Manufacturing4 days agoFedEx A300 Nose Gear Collapse During Maintenance at BWI Airport
-
Defense & Military4 days agoAirbus and Singapore Complete Manned-Unmanned Teaming Flight Trials