Strong gusts overturn four planes on Forlì airport tarmac

Winds gusting to roughly 120 km/h swept across the runway area of Forlì Airport on Tuesday, causing four light aircraft to be knocked over on the tarmac. The sudden force, described by pilots as a “wall of wind,” lifted the tail sections of the planes before they toppled onto their noses, leaving the aircraft badly damaged but, according to local officials, without any reported injuries.

The incident unfolded in the early afternoon as a cold front moved through the Emilia‑Romagna region, bringing the strongest winds recorded there in several years. Meteorological services had issued a high‑wind warning for the area, but the rapid escalation caught some ground crews off guard. Airport management immediately halted all movements, secured the perimeter, and dispatched fire and rescue teams to assess the situation and ensure the safety of nearby personnel.

A spokesperson for the airport confirmed that the four aircraft involved were small, single‑engine models typically used for flight training and recreational flying. Their owners have been notified, and insurance assessments are underway. The airport’s runway and taxiways were inspected for debris, and operations are expected to resume later in the evening once the wind subsides and the site is cleared.

Authorities are reviewing whether additional wind‑break measures or revised operating procedures are needed to prevent similar incidents. The event underscores the growing impact of extreme weather on aviation safety, especially in regions prone to sudden gusts and storm systems.

While no passengers were on board the grounded planes, the incident serves as a reminder for pilots and airport staff to remain vigilant during severe weather alerts, and for travelers to stay informed about potential disruptions caused by high winds.