Spirit Airlines completes preliminary investigation on Flight 403

Spirit, control tower weren't advised of parked aircraft, according to report

MIRAMAR, Fla. – Spirit Airlines announced on Wednesday it has completed its preliminary internal investigation into an incident involving a flight traveling from Atlanta and landing at Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport.

The incident involves Spirit Airlines Flight 403, which took place on the night of Dec. 31, 2012. Following landing, Spirit said air traffic control instructed the pilot to taxi to the gate using taxiway T.

Recommended Videos



While taxiing, Spirit Airbus A320 made contact with a parked US Airways A320 aircraft. Spirit said it was not advised by air traffic control of the presence of the other aircraft.

As part of Spirit's investigation, Spirit said it has been informed by officials that the control tower had also not been advised that the other A320 was parked in such close proximity to an active taxiway.

Additionally, Spirit Airlines said it has notified the National Transportation Safety Board and they will not be investigating given the minor nature of the incident.

Customers were deplaned at the gate as normal, according to Spirit, and there were no injuries reported. Officials said there were 167 customers on board.

Spirit said its aircraft was returned to service within hours following minor repairs.