Why Ryanair Passengers Were Evacuated After Wing Hit Fuel Truck at Edinburgh Airport

A Ryanair aircraft suffered an aircraft wing tip collision with a fuel truck at Edinburgh Airport on Monday, December 22. The incident occurred around 10:00 am as the plane was taxiing toward the runway for its scheduled flight to Faro, Portugal.

Incident Details and Response

The flight, designated FR5667, was preparing for departure when the wing tip contacted the cab of the fuel vehicle. Passengers were safely evacuated from the plane following the Edinburgh Airport ground incident. One passenger reported the plane was moving slowly at the time of the impact. No injuries were reported among the passengers or ground crew.

Scottish Fire and Rescue Service was alerted and initially mobilized six fire appliances as a precaution. However, the emergency response stood down quickly, as there was no fire or immediate danger. A spokesperson for Ryanair confirmed that passengers disembarked normally. A replacement aircraft was arranged to operate the delayed flight to Faro. Edinburgh Airport officials stated the event did not impact overall airport operations. The ground handling company, Swissport, stated they are cooperating with the investigation.

Broader Commercial Aviation Safety Concerns

This type of Ryanair plane fuel truck collision highlights the persistent risks of ground operations. Ground events consistently cause significant damage to aircraft each year. Industry data shows ground events are 800 times more likely to occur than any other kind of accident. Global loss-adjusting company McLarens estimates that 64% of worldwide aviation incidents in 2023 occurred on the ground. Collisions involving ground service equipment (GSE) account for approximately one-quarter of apron damage events. These ramp accidents cost major airlines at least US$10 billion annually.

Regulatory Focus on Ground Handling Safety Protocols

The incident comes as European regulators increase their focus on ground operations. The European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) recently introduced new EASA ground handling regulations. These rules, detailed in Regulation (EU) 2025/20, aim to standardize safety practices across EU aerodromes. Compliance with the new regulations is required by March 2028.

The new framework formally shifts safety responsibility to ground handlers. It covers all ramp services, including refueling and aircraft pushback operations. For more flight operation news and analysis on regulatory changes, visit flying.flights.

• Ground handling safety protocols must be strictly followed to prevent costly incidents.
• The new EASA regulations mandate enhanced training and safety management systems for ground crews.
• The low-speed nature of the collision was key to preventing a major emergency.

Airport operational disruption was minimal in this case. However, the event serves as a reminder of the need for continuous safety vigilance on the ramp.