On the 5th of January, an Aeromexico Embraer E190 and a Mexican Air Force Boeing 737 were shot while on the runway of Culiacan International Airport in Mexico. Both aircraft have been left with bullet holes in the fuselage.
The Embraer ERJ-190LR with registration XA-ALW was scheduled to operate flight AM165 from Culiacan to Mexico City. However, during the taxiing to the runway for departure, the aircraft was struck by bullets during a gunfight close to the airport. At the same time, a Mexican Air Force’s Boeing 737-800 was landing in Culiacan when it was shot.
Flight AM165’s passengers and crew members had to take cover inside the aircraft during the gun flight, as seen in several videos shared on the internet. After this, the aircraft returned to the gate with no injuries reported.
“This morning, we detected a bullet hole in the fuselage of an Embraer E190 aircraft that was ready to operate the flight AM165 on the route Culiacán-Mexico City. The flight was cancelled for safety reasons. The plane never began its departure.”
Aeromexico spokesperson
“After this incident, all safety protocols were activated, and we informed the authorities, with whom we will coordinate the investigations. The clients and employees are safe,” Aeromexico spokesperson continued.
According to local media, the shots were fired by criminal cartel members to prevent the arrest of local drug lord Ovidio Guzmán, the son of former Mexican cartel leader El Chapo’ Guzmán by military forces.
Following the incident, at least three airports including Culiacán International, Mazatlán International and Los Mochis International were closed.
Feature Image via Twitter