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JetBlue Airbus A220 Grounded After Richmond Wingtip Strike
JetBlue Airbus A220 grounded at Richmond after a pushback tug struck an adjacent restaurant window on September 13, 2025.
JetBlue Airways reported that an Airbus A220 was taken out of service at Richmond International Airport (RIC) on September 13, 2025, after a ground-handling error during pushback. The aircraft’s wingtip struck windows at an Applebee’s restaurant that sits adjacent to the terminal. No injuries were reported and there were no passengers aboard at the time.
The airplane was preparing for a scheduled departure to Boston when the incident occurred; airport personnel said ground teams removed the aircraft from service so maintenance crews could inspect the structure and complete repairs. JetBlue confirmed the aircraft will remain grounded pending the outcome of those inspections.
What this means for JetBlue Airbus A220 ramp safety
Incidents like this underline persistent ramp safety challenges at busy U.S. airports, where narrow gate layouts and tight clearances can amplify the consequences of a single human error. The Airbus A220, a modern narrowbody used by JetBlue on short- to medium-haul routes, has relatively large wingtips for its size, which can be vulnerable during pushback in constrained ramp environments.
- JetBlue Airbus A220 removed from service for inspection and repair.
- No injuries reported and no passengers on board during pushback.
- Incident took place at Richmond International Airport (RIC) on September 13, 2025 during pushback for a scheduled Boston flight.
Airport officials and the airline will review ground handling procedures and tug operator training as part of the follow-up. While investigations and inspections are routine after such contact, airlines and airports often use these events to re-evaluate gate clearances, marshaller protocols, and tug attachment checks to reduce repeat incidents.
The event is a reminder that ramp operations are a critical safety frontier beyond the flight deck — small mistakes on the apron can have outsized operational and reputational consequences. JetBlue’s maintenance and safety teams are expected to issue further details once inspections are complete.
