Turkish Airlines 777-300ER Wing Strike at Antalya Airport

This is a developing story. Information may change as official details are released.

This article summarizes reporting by Hürriyet.

A Turkish Airlines (TK) Boeing 777-300ER sustained damage and prompted a passenger evacuation after its right wing struck a ground radar antenna pole while taxiing at Antalya Airport (AYT) on June 11, 2026.

The incident, which occurred at approximately 20:00 local time following Flight TK2430 from Istanbul, resulted in minor injuries among the passengers. According to official statements reported by Hürriyet, the widebody aircraft was maneuvering toward its parking position on Apron-1 when the collision occurred, leading to an immediate evacuation on the tarmac.

Conflicting passenger and injury reports

Following the evacuation, official sources provided conflicting figures regarding the number of passengers on board and the extent of injuries. In a public statement, Turkish Airlines Senior Vice President of Communications Yahya Üstün confirmed the evacuation, stating that 267 passengers were safely removed from the aircraft. The airline reported that one passenger sustained minor injuries and was in good health.

Conversely, the Turkey Ministry of Transport released a separate statement indicating a higher passenger count. The ministry reported that the aircraft was carrying 284 adult passengers and four infants. Furthermore, the government authority stated that three passengers suffered minor injuries during the event. Both entities confirmed that the aircraft, registered as TC-LKD, was towed to a parking area after the necessary safety checks and passenger removal were completed.

Investigation into the ground collision

A technical investigation into the ground collision has been initiated by the Turkey Ministry of Transport and the General Directorate of State Airports Authority (DHMI). The official cause of the incident remains under investigation.

While the airline noted the aircraft was approaching its parking position, preliminary remarks from the Ministry of Transport suggested the Boeing 777-300ER made contact with the radar pole after entering an incorrect taxiway line. Final determinations regarding the aircraft routing, ground control instructions, and the sequence of events will be established by the investigating authorities.

AirPro News analysis

Ground collisions involving widebody aircraft like the Boeing 777-300ER often highlight the tight tolerances required when maneuvering large airframes around airport infrastructure. While we await the official investigation findings, safety reviews following such events typically examine airport taxiway markings, lighting, and the clarity of ground control communications. The discrepancy in passenger manifests between the operator and the regulator is a notable detail, though initial reporting conflicts frequently occur in the immediate aftermath of an evacuation before final reconciliations are completed.

Sources: X.com