Man Dies After Plane Engine Suction in Italy

Man Dies in Tragic Airport Incident in Milan

Milan, Italy – A man has died at Milan Bergamo Airport following a harrowing incident involving a parked aircraft. Preliminary reports indicate the individual was fatally injured after being drawn into the engine of a plane on the tarmac.

The incident occurred earlier today,prompting an immediate suspension of all flight operations at the airport. Emergency services responded swiftly, but were unable to save the man’s life. Authorities have launched a full inquiry to determine the circumstances surrounding the tragedy.

While initial reports suggested the man may have been an airport employee, details regarding his identity and the events leading up to the incident remain scarce.Italian authorities are currently working to piece together the sequence of events.

Local media outlets report that investigators are exploring all possibilities, including whether the man intentionally entered the restricted area near the aircraft. The Telegraph reported sources suggesting the man “threw himself” into the engine, however, this remains unconfirmed.

Evergreen Insights: Airport Safety and Engine Design

This tragic event underscores the inherent dangers present in airport environments and the critical importance of stringent safety protocols.modern jet engines, while engineering marvels, pose notable risks to anyone who comes into close proximity with their moving parts.

Jet engines operate with immense force,ingesting large volumes of air and expelling exhaust at extremely high velocities.the suction created by these engines is powerful enough to draw in objects – and unfortunately, in this case, a person.Airports employ multiple layers of security to prevent unauthorized access to the tarmac, including perimeter fencing, surveillance systems, and regular patrols. However, breaches can occur, highlighting the ongoing need for vigilance and continuous advancement in security measures.Moreover, engine design itself plays a role in safety.Modern engines incorporate features designed to minimize the risk of foreign object damage (FOD), but these measures are not foolproof.

This incident serves as a stark reminder of the complex safety challenges faced by the aviation industry and the constant need to prioritize the protection of both passengers and personnel. The investigation’s findings will likely lead to a review of safety procedures at Milan Bergamo Airport and perhaps across other aviation facilities worldwide.

What international organizations set standards for aviation safety relevant too this incident?

The Incident at Ciampino Airport

On July 8,2025,a tragic incident occurred at Ciampino Airport near Rome,Italy,resulting in the death of a ground handling worker. The man,identified as a 31-year-old Italian national,was fatally injured after being sucked into the engine of a Boeing 737 aircraft. Initial reports indicate the aircraft was undergoing maintenance at the time of the accident. This event has sparked immediate investigations into airport safety protocols and engine maintenance procedures. The incident highlights the inherent dangers of working in close proximity to aircraft engines, even when they are ostensibly shut down.

How Engine suction Occurs: A Technical Explanation

Aircraft engines, particularly jet engines, generate immense suction even when not running at full power. This suction is a byproduct of the engine’s design, intended to draw in air for combustion. Several factors contribute to this phenomenon:

Residual Thrust: even after shutdown, residual energy within the engine can maintain some level of airflow and suction.

Fan Blade Design: The shape and angle of the fan blades create a continuous pull of air.

Engine Cooling Systems: Some cooling systems utilize fans that continue to operate for a period after engine shutdown, contributing to suction.

Incomplete Shutdown Procedures: Failure to follow precise shutdown procedures can leave residual power or airflow active.

This suction force is powerful enough to pull in lose objects, and tragically, in this case, a person. The force can be instantaneous and overwhelming, leaving little chance for reaction. Understanding the mechanics of engine suction is crucial for preventing future accidents.

Immediate Aftermath and Inquiry

Following the incident,Ciampino Airport was temporarily closed while authorities investigated the scene. Italian aviation authorities (ENAC) and local police are conducting a thorough investigation to determine the exact circumstances leading to the worker’s death. Key areas of focus include:

Adherence to Safety Protocols: Were all established safety procedures followed during the maintenance operation?

Engine Shutdown Verification: Was the engine properly shut down and secured before maintenance work began?

Warning Systems: Were adequate warning systems in place to alert personnel to the potential for engine suction?

Training and Supervision: Was the worker adequately trained and supervised for the task he was performing?

Preliminary reports suggest the worker was near the engine intake when the incident occurred. Investigators are reviewing security footage and interviewing witnesses to reconstruct the events. The aircraft involved has been impounded for further examination.

Airport safety Regulations & Best Practices

Airport safety regulations are designed to minimize the risk of accidents like this. Several international and national standards govern ground handling operations and aircraft maintenance.These include:

ICAO (International Civil aviation Institution) Standards: ICAO sets global standards for aviation safety, security, and efficiency.

EASA (European Union Aviation Safety Agency) regulations: EASA implements and enforces aviation safety regulations within the European Union.

National Aviation Authority Regulations (ENAC in Italy): Each country has it’s own aviation authority responsible for overseeing safety within its borders.

Best practices for preventing engine suction incidents include:

1. Lockout/Tagout Procedures: Implementing strict lockout/tagout procedures to ensure engines cannot be accidentally started during maintenance.
2. Physical Barriers: Using physical barriers, such as safety nets or cones, to create a safe working zone around engines.
3. Clear Communication: Maintaining clear and consistent communication between all personnel involved in maintenance operations.
4. Complete Training: Providing comprehensive training to all ground handling and maintenance staff on the dangers of engine suction and proper safety procedures.
5. Regular Safety Audits: Conducting regular safety audits to identify and address potential hazards.

Similar Incidents & Lessons Learned

Unfortunately, this is not the frist time a worker has been injured or killed by engine suction. several similar incidents have occurred worldwide, prompting investigations and changes to safety protocols.

2015 – Philippine Airlines Incident: A mechanic was killed after being sucked into the engine of a Philippine Airlines aircraft during maintenance at ninoy Aquino International Airport.

* 2017 – Turkish Airlines Incident: A ground handling worker sustained serious injuries after being pulled