On June 11, 2026, a Turkish Airlines Boeing 777-300ER (registration TC-LKD) struck a ground radar antenna mast while maneuvering to its parking position at Antalya Airport. The aircraft, operating flight TK2430 from Istanbul, had just landed without incident. During taxi on apron-1, the right wing hit the mast, causing it to collapse and pierce the fuselage. The impact created a hole in the cabin, triggered automatic oxygen mask deployment, and damaged overhead bins. The right wing also sustained significant damage. All 267 passengers and crew were evacuated safely on the tarmac, with one minor injury reported. Turkish Airlines confirmed the event in a statement, and Turkish authorities have opened a technical investigation to determine why the crew used an inappropriate taxiway. The 17-year-old aircraft has been withdrawn from service for repairs.
This incident is a stark reminder that ground operations—often overlooked in favor of flight phases—carry substantial risks. For ATPL students, it underscores the importance of taxi procedures, situational awareness, and adherence to airport charts. Even a routine landing can turn into a major event if ground movement is mishandled. The Boeing 777's large wingspan (nearly 65 meters) makes it particularly vulnerable in confined apron areas, especially at busy airports like Antalya, managed by Fraport. ATC trainees, meanwhile, must appreciate how their clearances and monitoring of ground traffic directly impact safety. The investigation will likely focus on human factors, such as crew coordination and communication with ground control, as well as airport design and signage.
From a training perspective, this event is a valuable case study. ATPL candidates should review the principles of taxiway markings, wingtip clearance, and the use of marshallers. ATC students can analyze how ground radar systems and procedural controls might have prevented the collision. The incident also highlights the need for robust standard operating procedures (SOPs) and crew resource management (CRM) during taxi, a phase where complacency can creep in. While rare, such collisions remind the aviation community that safety is a continuous effort, from the cockpit to the control tower.
The airport resumed normal operations shortly after the incident, but the damage to the aircraft and infrastructure will require extensive repairs. For those in training, this is a real-world example of why ground safety is a critical component of aviation—not just a footnote in the syllabus.