Ground Vehicle Strikes Southwest Jet as Passengers Board in Memphis

A Southwest Airlines plane was hit by a ground vehicle at Memphis International Airport in the United States on Sunday, just as passengers were boarding for departure. The vehicle briefly became trapped under the aircraft, creating an unusual scene on the tarmac and causing a significant delay in airport operations.

The incident involved Southwest flight 4013, which was scheduled to fly to Dallas. The strike happened in the afternoon or early evening, before takeoff. No injuries were reported among passengers or crew.

Southwest said the aircraft was taken out of service for inspection and replaced with another plane so the route could be completed. The airline said the event is being investigated through its safety management system. Emergency teams responded to the scene, but airport activity continued without major disruption.