Lion Air pilots grounded after plane hits post a week after airline’s fatal crash
Two Lion Air pilots have been grounded after their aircraft hit a lamp post at an airport in Indonesia a week after one of the airline’s jets crashed, killing all 189 onboard.
In the latest incident, the aircraft, which was carrying 151 people, was taxiing to the runway at Fatmawati airport in Bengkulu when its left wing collided with a metal post.
A fragment of the wing was dislodged, forcing the aircraft to abort its journey and return to the airport.
The 143 passengers on flight JT 633 to Jakarta were transferred to another plane and arrived in the capital four hours late.
An Indonesian official said the aircraft and the pilots have been grounded while the accident is investigated.
"The aircraft nudged the pole while travelling to the runway," said Pramintohadi Sukarno of Indonesia’s Ministry of Transportation.
"We have instructed Kabandara to ensure that airlines fulfil their obligations in accordance with the provisions by providing compensation for late flights to passengers."
Lion Air has apologised to customers, saying: "When the plane was moving towards the runway, the wingtips knocked over the airport’s parking lot pole, which broke.
"The aircraft was controlled by a pilot with guidance and instructions as well as signs given by Aircraft Movement Control (AMC) officers.
"The AMC officer is a person from the airport management and is being examined by the relevant party."
Linsey McNeill
Editor Linsey McNeill has been writing about travel for more than three decades. Bylines include The Times, Telegraph, Observer, Guardian and Which? plus the South China Morning Post. She also shares insider tips on thetraveljournalist.co.uk
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