History of Flight
On Saturday, October 07, 2017, at 04:51 UTC, an ATR 42-500 aircraft registered SX-GRI, operated by SKY EXPRESS S.A., was scheduled to operate flight GQ 030 from Athens International Airport (LGAV) to Paros (LGPA). After passengers had boarded and with ATC start-up clearance received, the flight crew, in contact with the ground crew using hand signals, started engines No. 2 and No. 1 in that order, using the Ground Power Unit (GPU) in accordance with the SKY EXPRESS Manual Part B normal procedures. Following the normal start of both engines, the captain requested the removal of all ground service equipment (GSE).
The operator hastily disconnected the power cable and, while attempting to untangle it, moved backwards facing forward. In doing so, he was struck by the running feathered propeller of the No. 2 engine, sustaining serious injuries. During the execution of the After Start checklist, the flight crew was requested by the ramp agent to shut down both engines due to the injured ground personnel. Both engines were shut down and the forward left door was opened. The captain and the safety pilot proceeded to the accident site and remained there until the injured ground crew member was transported by ambulance to the airport medical center.
Injuries to Persons
One ground crew member sustained serious injuries. The individual was transported by ambulance to the airport medical center for first aid and then to a hospital where he was hospitalized for four days. He remained off duty for approximately fifteen days. No other persons were injured; the four flight crew and 19 passengers were uninjured, and there were no fatalities.
Aircraft Damage
The aircraft sustained no damage as a result of the accident.
Meteorological Information
The weather at the time was reported as: LGAV 070350Z 0000 kts CAVOK 17/14 Q1007 RMK NOSIG, indicating calm winds and clear conditions.
Probable Cause
The investigation did not determine a probable cause for the accident.