A major ground collision at Charleston International Airport on July 18, 2025, has disrupted flights and sparked a federal investigation. The incident, which involved an All Nippon Airways (ANA) Boeing 787-10 and a parked Breeze Airways Airbus A220-300, has raised new questions about airport safety and ground operations, especially during periods of high congestion and severe weather. As the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) investigates, passengers, airlines, and airport officials are working to address the immediate impact and consider long-term solutions.
What Happened at Charleston International Airport?
On the night of July 18, 2025, at about 9:50 p.m., a serious ground collision took place at Charleston International Airport (CHS). An ANA Boeing 787-10, operating as Flight 9397, was taxiing on the runway with only five crew members on board—no passengers. As the aircraft moved along the taxiway, its left wingtip struck the tail of a stationary Breeze Airways Airbus A220-300. The Breeze Airways plane had diverted to Charleston due to severe weather near its original destination, Norfolk, Virginia, and was parked awaiting refueling.
Immediate Response and Injuries
Emergency medical teams and law enforcement responded quickly to the scene. Two passengers on the Breeze Airways aircraft were evaluated for minor injuries, but there were no major injuries or fatalities. All other Breeze passengers were safely transported by bus to the terminal. The ANA crew was unharmed, and their aircraft was empty at the time of the incident.
Breeze Airways confirmed that all passengers were safely deplaned and that only two people needed minor medical attention. ANA has not released a detailed public statement but is fully cooperating with the ongoing investigation.
Flight Disruptions and Airport Operations
The collision caused immediate disruptions at Charleston International Airport. Several flights were delayed, and some gates were temporarily closed as emergency crews worked to secure the area and clear the scene. While the airport remains open as of July 21, 2025, travelers have experienced some residual delays and schedule changes in the days following the incident.
Passengers affected by the delays have been offered support by Breeze Airways, including rebooking assistance and customer service help. The airport has also provided information and support to travelers needing updates or assistance.
FAA Investigation: What Is Being Reviewed?
The FAA launched a formal investigation into the collision right after the incident. The agency is focusing on several key areas:
- Ground crew communication and oversight: Investigators are looking at how ground staff communicated with each other and with the pilots during the busy period.
- Safe taxiing procedures: The investigation will review how the ANA aircraft was guided while taxiing, especially during periods of congestion.
- Emergency response protocols: The FAA wants to ensure that emergency teams responded quickly and followed proper procedures.
- Airline and airport responsibilities: Both the airlines and the airport’s role in ground safety are under review.
As of July 21, 2025, the FAA has not released a preliminary cause for the collision or a timeline for when the investigation will be completed. Updates will be posted on the FAA’s official newsroom and incident reporting portal.
Official Statements and Stakeholder Reactions
Charleston International Airport has emphasized its commitment to safety and is working closely with federal investigators. Breeze Airways has reassured passengers that their safety is the airline’s top priority and has provided support to those affected. ANA is cooperating with the investigation, though it has not issued a detailed public statement.
The FAA, as the lead agency, has acknowledged the incident and is expected to provide further updates as the investigation progresses.
Policy Implications and Safety Concerns
This incident has reignited debate about airport ground safety, especially during times of high congestion and when flights are diverted due to weather. Aviation safety experts are calling for several improvements:
- Enhanced ground crew training: Better training can help prevent miscommunication and mistakes during busy periods.
- Improved communication systems: Upgrading the technology used by pilots and ground control can reduce the risk of accidents.
- Review of taxiway congestion management: Airports may need to rethink how they manage aircraft movements when many planes are on the ground at once.
The FAA is expected to review and possibly update its ground operations guidelines once the investigation is complete. According to analysis by VisaVerge.com, incidents like this often lead to new safety recommendations and changes in airport procedures across the United States 🇺🇸.
Procedures for Affected Passengers
Passengers on the Breeze Airways flight involved in the collision received immediate medical evaluations and were safely transported to the terminal. Breeze Airways is offering customer support and rebooking assistance for those whose travel plans were disrupted. If you were on the affected flight or need more information, you can contact:
- Breeze Airways Customer Service: Available through the airline’s official website and app
- Charleston International Airport Information Desk: (843) 767-7000
For claims or further questions, passengers are encouraged to reach out directly to Breeze Airways or the airport’s information desk.
Contact and Resources
For those seeking more information or needing to report concerns, the following contacts are available:
- Charleston International Airport Information: (843) 767-7000
- FAA Public Affairs: (202) 267-3883
- FAA Airport Data and Information Portal: 844-357-2447 (8AM–8PM ET, Mon–Fri)
- Breeze Airways Customer Service: Accessible via the airline’s website and app
Background: How Common Are Ground Collisions?
Ground collisions at airports are rare but can happen, especially during periods of high traffic, bad weather, or when there are lapses in communication. The incident at Charleston International Airport is the most significant ground collision at this airport in recent years. It is drawing close attention from industry regulators, safety experts, and airlines.
In most cases, ground collisions do not result in major injuries or fatalities, but they can cause significant disruptions and highlight weaknesses in airport operations. The FAA and other agencies use these incidents to review and improve safety protocols.
Future Outlook: What Happens Next?
The FAA’s investigation is ongoing, and a preliminary report is expected in the coming weeks. Depending on what investigators find, there could be new policy changes or operational recommendations for Charleston International Airport and possibly other airports across the United States 🇺🇸.
Some possible changes include:
- Updating ground operations guidelines: The FAA may require airports to adopt new procedures for managing aircraft movements during busy periods.
- Investing in new technology: Airports might install better communication and tracking systems to help prevent future collisions.
- Improving training: Both ground crews and pilots could receive more training on how to handle congested taxiways and emergency situations.
The incident is also expected to influence ongoing discussions about upgrading airport infrastructure and using more automation in ground operations.
Multiple Perspectives: How Are Different Groups Affected?
- Passengers: Many travelers expressed concern about ground safety but praised the quick response from emergency teams and airport staff. Some passengers experienced delays and had to adjust their travel plans, but most appreciated the support provided by Breeze Airways and the airport.
- Airlines: Both Breeze Airways and ANA have emphasized their commitment to safety and are cooperating fully with the investigation. Airlines are likely to review their own ground procedures and training in light of the incident.
- Aviation Safety Experts: Experts are urging a thorough review of ground operations and calling for more investment in technology and training. They point out that as air travel increases, airports must keep up with new safety challenges.
No Fatalities or Major Injuries: A Relief for All
One of the most important facts about the Charleston International Airport collision is that there were no fatalities or life-threatening injuries. Only two passengers suffered minor injuries, and both received prompt medical attention. This outcome is a testament to the effectiveness of emergency response teams and the safety measures already in place.
Summary of Key Facts
- Date/Time: July 18, 2025, around 9:50 p.m.
- Location: Charleston International Airport (CHS)
- Aircraft Involved: ANA Boeing 787-10 (no passengers), Breeze Airways Airbus A220-300 (passengers aboard)
- Injuries: 2 minor (Breeze Airways passengers)
- Investigation: FAA-led, ongoing as of July 21, 2025
- Operational Status: Airport open, some delays reported
What Should Travelers Do Now?
If you are traveling through Charleston International Airport or have upcoming flights with Breeze Airways or ANA, here are some practical steps:
- Check your flight status: Visit the Charleston International Airport website or your airline’s site for the latest updates.
- Arrive early: Allow extra time for possible delays or changes in gate assignments.
- Contact your airline: If your flight was affected, reach out to Breeze Airways or ANA for rebooking or support.
- Stay informed: Follow updates from the FAA and Charleston International Airport for the latest information on the investigation and any new safety measures.
Looking Ahead: Building a Safer Future
This incident has highlighted the importance of strong safety protocols and clear communication at busy airports. As air travel continues to grow, airports like Charleston International must invest in better technology, training, and infrastructure to keep passengers and crew safe.
The FAA’s investigation will likely lead to new recommendations that could improve ground safety not just at Charleston International Airport, but at airports across the United States 🇺🇸. These changes may include better training for ground crews, improved communication systems, and updated procedures for handling busy periods and weather-related diversions.
Where to Find Official Information
For the most reliable and up-to-date information about the investigation and airport operations, travelers and industry professionals should monitor the FAA newsroom and the Charleston International Airport’s official communications. These sources provide timely updates and guidance for anyone affected by the incident.
Conclusion: Lessons Learned and Next Steps
The ground collision at Charleston International Airport involving All Nippon Airways and Breeze Airways has disrupted travel and raised important questions about airport safety. While the immediate impact has been managed with no major injuries, the incident serves as a reminder of the challenges airports face during periods of high congestion and severe weather.
As the FAA continues its investigation, all eyes are on Charleston International Airport and the airlines involved. The findings will likely shape future safety policies and operational procedures, helping to prevent similar incidents in the future. In the meantime, passengers can take comfort in the quick response from emergency teams and the ongoing commitment of airlines and airport officials to keep everyone safe.
For more information, travelers can contact their airline, the Charleston International Airport information desk, or visit the FAA’s official newsroom for the latest updates. As reported by VisaVerge.com, the outcome of this investigation could lead to important changes in how airports across the United States 🇺🇸 handle ground operations, making air travel safer for everyone.
Learn Today
FAA → Federal Aviation Administration, the US agency regulating civil aviation safety and investigations.
Taxiway → Designated airport path for aircraft movement from runway to gate or vice versa.
Ground Collision → Accident involving aircraft contacting other aircraft or objects while on airport surfaces.
Congestion → High volume of aircraft or traffic in airport ground areas causing operational challenges.
Emergency Response → Coordinated actions by medical and safety teams during accidents or incidents.
This Article in a Nutshell
A ground collision at Charleston Airport on July 18, 2025, involving ANA and Breeze Airways disrupted flights and sparked FAA investigation. Two passengers suffered minor injuries; no deaths occurred. The FAA focuses on taxi procedures, communication, and safety improvements as airports address congestion and weather challenges to prevent future incidents.
— By VisaVerge.com
