Flydubai plane grounded after being struck by oil bowser at VIA

A Flydubai aircraft has been grounded after being hit by an oil bowser while parked on the apron at Velana International Airport.

The incident, reported by aviation news agency Aviators Maldives, caused damage to the plane’s wing structure. No fuel was spilled, and no injuries were reported.

The aircraft will remain out of service until repairs are completed and certified to meet regulatory standards.

“The aircraft will remain grounded until repairs are completed and regulatory standards are met,” Aviators Maldives said.

Velana International Airport, the busiest in the Maldives, serves thousands of passengers daily. They added that the incident highlights the need to strengthen apron safety procedures, including increased driver training, clearer communication among ground staff, and the use of vehicle movers to guide vehicles near aircraft.

Maldives Airports Company Limited (MACL) has yet to issue a comment on the incident.