On 10 September 2024, a Delta Air Lines Airbus A350-941 (Flight 295) collided with an Endeavor Air CRJ-900 (Flight 5526) while taxiing for departure at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL). The accident occurred at the intersection of Taxiways E and H.
The CRJ was stationary, holding short of Runway 8R awaiting take-off clearance, while the A350 was taxiing past on an intersecting taxiway. As the A350 passed behind the CRJ, its right wingtip struck the CRJ’s vertical stabiliser, causing substantial damage to the CRJ’s tail and minor damage to the A350.
A350, no injuries, minor aircraft damage.
CRJ-900, one flight attendant sustained a minor injury, substantial damage to the empennage.
The report is preliminary and does not identify a cause. However, the investigation has established that.
Runway 09L, normally used by larger aircraft, was closed for construction, requiring the A350 to taxi to RW 8R.
The A350 crew were instructed to follow the CRJ and continue taxiing on Taxiway E.
While taxiing, the A350 crew received a“NAV GNSS-2” alert and informed ATC that they might need to stop to coordinate with maintenance. ATC instructed them to continue ahead and hold short of Taxiway V if able, to work on the problem..
The A350 captain stated that his attention was focused ahead and to the left to ensure the aircraft’s left wingtip remained clear of opposite-direction traffic.
The collision occurred as the A350 passed the stationary CRJ.
ADS-B and flight recorder data show the A350 was travelling at approximately 12 knots at impact, while the CRJ was stationary.
Image Source: NTSB Report, Atlanta Airside Operations