A 64-year-old United Airlines employee was rushed to the hospital in critical condition after the aircraft tug vehicle he was driving was struck by a taxiing plane at Chicago O’Hare International Airport Saturday, police said.
The tug vehicle was reportedly making its way across the runway when it was struck by the wing of an American Airlines plane — American Eagle Flight 6181 — that had just landed from Kalamazoo Battle Creek International Airport in Michigan, according to American Airlines and Chicago police.
The collision flipped the tug vehicle and its driver, identified as a 64-year-old man employed by United, became trapped. Police did not release his name.
The driver was eventually freed and taken to Lutheran General Hospital in critical condition. He suffered injuries to his head and lower body, but is now in stable condition, police said.
“We are ensuring he receives any necessary support and care,” United Airlines said.
No passengers or crew members onboard the plane were injured, according to American Airlines. They were all able to safely deplane and bussed to their terminal.
