Summary (tl;dr)

Two Southwest Airlines Boeing 737 aircraft collided on the tarmac at Rhode Island T.F. Green International Airport (PVD) on Thursday night, leading to the cancellation of two flights and prompting an investigation by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).

Essential Background

Ground collisions involving aircraft, while typically low-speed and often not resulting in injuries, can still cause significant damage to commercial planes, including wingtips and tail assemblies. Such incidents necessitate detailed inspections and can lead to costly operational disruptions for airlines, including repair expenses and passenger reaccommodation. Pilots have limited rear visibility during pushback, relying on ground operators and wing walkers, and crowded ramps or delayed schedules can increase the margin for error.

The Full Story

On Thursday night, June 11, 2026, two Southwest Airlines Boeing 737s were involved in a ground collision at Rhode Island T.F. Green International Airport. The incident occurred around 10:45 PM local time when Southwest Flight WN3515, which was already delayed, was pushing back from its gate and its wingtip made contact with the tail of another Southwest Boeing 737 operating as Flight WN3409. Both flights, WN3409 bound for Chicago Midway International Airport (MDW) and WN3515 headed to Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA), were subsequently canceled. Passengers on board reportedly noticed the collision and alerted the flight crew, who were initially unaware of the impact. No injuries were reported, and passengers deplaned normally after the planes returned to their gates. The FAA has launched an investigation into the circumstances of the collision, examining aircraft movements, pushback procedures, ramp operations, and communications. Southwest Airlines has confirmed the incident and stated they are thoroughly inspecting both aircraft and have reaccommodated affected customers.

Why It Matters

This incident is significant due to the operational disruptions and financial costs incurred by Southwest Airlines, including repair expenses for the damaged aircraft and the need to rebook affected passengers. It also highlights ongoing concerns about ground safety at busy airports, especially during periods of operational stress like delays. The FAA investigation will examine procedures and potentially identify areas for improvement in ground handling and communication protocols to prevent similar occurrences in the future. For travelers, the event underscores the potential for unexpected delays and cancellations, even before a flight departs.

Geographic Location

• Rhode Island T.F. Green International Airport (PVD), Warwick, Kent County, Rhode Island, United States (two Southwest Airlines planes collided during ground operations)