A GOL Linhas Aéreas Inteligentes Boeing 737 MAX collided with a ground vehicle during its takeoff roll at Rio de Janeiro Galeao International Airport. All passengers and crew on board were evacuated safely, as confirmed by the airline.
The incident occurred as the aircraft, registered PS-GPP, was departing for Fortaleza Pinto Martins International Airport. Videos from social media showed the aftermath of the collision and passengers evacuating via airstairs on the runway. The aircraft stopped at the end of the runway following the collision.
Air traffic control audio revealed that pilots informed controllers about stopping takeoff due to a car on the runway. Rio de Janeiro Galeao Airport confirmed that an airport-owned vehicle was involved in the incident.
GOL stated, “An extra flight to Fortaleza was made available for those who chose to continue their journey. Those who decided to remain in Rio de Janeiro received full assistance with accommodation, transportation and food.” The airline also assured that this incident would not impact other flights.
Operations at Galeao continued despite the collision since it has two non-intersecting runways. A LATAM Airlines Airbus A320ceo scheduled for departure after GOL’s flight taxied back before departing from another runway.
GOL emphasized that “the crew and team followed procedures and acted quickly to ensure the safety of passengers.”
