Tragedy at Milan Bergamo Airport: Man Killed on Runway, Flights Suspended

Milan, Italy – July 8, 2025: A fatal accident occurred on the runway of Milan Il Caravaggio International Airport (Bergamo) today, leading to a complete suspension of flight operations.

Authorities confirmed that a male individual was killed on the tarmac around 10:20 a.m. local time after being struck by an aircraft. Early reports suggest the man may have been ingested into the engine of a plane preparing for departure, though this remains under investigation.

What Happened at Milan Bergamo?

According to official sources and eyewitnesses, the incident took place during regular taxiing procedures at the airport. The man, who was not a passenger or authorized ground staff, somehow made his way onto the active taxiway where the aircraft was preparing for takeoff.

Within minutes, emergency services responded. Video footage posted to social media showed fire trucks, ambulances, and airport security surrounding a passenger plane, particularly near the left engine.

SACBO’s Official Statement

SACBO, the airport’s operating company, issued the following update on social media:“SACBO announces that flight operations at Milan Bergamo Airport were suspended at 10:20 a.m. due to a problem that occurred on the taxiway. The causes of the problem are currently being investigated by the authorities.”

Authorities have not yet released the identity of the deceased.

Impact on Flights and Passengers

The suspension had an immediate impact on both incoming and outgoing flights:

• At least 9 flights were diverted to nearby airports, including Milan Malpensa, Verona, and Bologna.

• 8 outbound flights were cancelled before noon.

• Many Ryanair flights, the largest operator at Bergamo, were listed as delayed or canceled on platforms like Flightradar24.

Passengers were advised to check their flight status before traveling and to contact their airlines for rebooking options.

Airport Security Concerns

One of the biggest questions following the accident is how the man accessed the taxiway. Airport security zones are usually tightly controlled, especially the airside sections where aircraft operate.

Experts have raised concerns about:

• Breach in fencing or perimeter security

• Possible failure of surveillance systems

• Lack of immediate detection of an unauthorized person

The ongoing investigation by airport police and aviation authorities will focus heavily on how this security lapse occurred.

Aircraft Involved

While SACBO has not confirmed the specific flight, reports and images from the scene suggest a Ryanair Boeing 737 may have been the aircraft involved. Emergency crews were seen clustered near the left engine of the stationary plane.

No injuries were reported among the crew or passengers onboard. The aircraft has since been removed from service for technical inspection.

Community Reaction

News of the tragedy spread quickly across Italian and international media. Locals expressed their shock and sadness, particularly over the mystery of how such an accident could happen in a controlled environment.

One social media user wrote: “Milan Bergamo is one of the busiest airports in Italy. How could someone just walk onto the runway?”

Another traveler stranded at the airport shared: “We were ready to board when staff suddenly stopped everything. It’s scary and tragic. I just hope the person’s family gets answers.”