Incident Overview
On 20 June 2024 at 17:08 local time, an Airbus A320-214, registration HB-JXF, operated by EasyJet Switzerland SA, was cleared for takeoff from runway 35 at Pristina International Airport (BKPR) in Kosovo. At the same time, an airport-owned vehicle was present on the active runway near threshold 17, located at the eastern end of the runway. The aircraft lifted off and flew over the vehicle at a sufficient altitude, according to the Swiss Transportation Safety Investigation Board (STSB).
Flight Crew Report
The flight crew stated that they had flown over the vehicle with the landing gear still extended. No damage to the aircraft, crew, passengers, or ground personnel was reported. The flight was a commercial operation under Instrument Flight Rules (IFR) from Pristina to Geneva Airport (LSGG).
Investigation
The Aeronautical Accident and Incident Investigations Commission of the Republic of Kosovo has opened an investigation into the incident. The STSB issued a notification on 8 August 2024 regarding the serious incident involving a Swiss-registered aircraft.
Remarks
Details regarding the number of cabin crew and passengers on board were not specified in the notification. The aircraft, an Airbus A320-214, is owned by EasyJet Airline Company Limited. The incident occurred in broad daylight under unknown weather conditions.