Indigo Airbus A320 Hit by Ground Vehicle at Kolkata Airport

Kolkata, India - An IndiGo Airbus A320 sustained minor damage on Tuesday following an incident involving an unattended ground vehicle at Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport, according to airport and airline sources.

The aircraft, parked at Bay/Stand 51 and scheduled to operate a flight from Kolkata to Guwahati, was struck by a catering vehicle that rolled forward uncontrolled. At the time of the event, boarding had not commenced, and the flight crew had not yet arrived on scene.

Preliminary reports indicate that the catering vehicle had stopped in proximity to the aircraft when the driver exited without engaging the handbrake. The vehicle subsequently lurched forward either upon being restarted or due to the absence of braking action and made contact with the A320’s engine.

The collision resulted in minor damage to the engine cowling or surrounding structure. Engineering teams commenced inspections shortly thereafter, and the aircraft is expected to remain out of service pending the completion of all required safety checks.

Airport authorities have launched an internal inquiry into the breach of apron safety protocols. Standard operating procedures mandate that all ground service vehicles be fully immobilized when left unattended, especially within active aircraft movement zones.

No passengers or crew were onboard at the time of the incident. Officials confirmed that a more serious occurrence was averted due to the aircraft being stationary.