Flight operations were halted after easyJet planes to Paris and Gibraltar clipped wings on taxiway at Manchester Airport.
Passengers at Manchester Airport faced major disruption on Friday morning after two easyJet planes “clipped wings” while taxiing to the runway, forcing a temporary halt to all flights.
The incident occurred shortly after 6:15 a.m., when one aircraft bound for Gibraltar and another headed for Paris came into contact. Operations were paused as safety checks were carried out, with flights resuming later in the morning. However, airport officials have warned that delays could continue throughout the day.
Neither of the two planes involved will depart from Manchester, and easyJet confirmed alternative travel arrangements are being made for affected passengers.
“EasyJet can confirm that the wing tips of two aircraft came into contact whilst taxiing to the runway at Manchester Airport this morning,” a spokesperson said. “The aircraft returned to stand to disembark customers, who have been provided with refreshment vouchers whilst replacement aircraft are arranged. We apologise for the delay. The safety of our passengers and crew is our highest priority.”
The collision, while rare, highlights the tight maneuvering required on busy runways during peak travel hours.
