What happened
On May 19, 2015, at 11:20 UTC, a Brussels Airlines Airbus A320-214, registration OO-SNB, was taxiing at Lisbon Airport (LPPT) to park at stand 114. During the arrival and docking process, the left engine air intake cowl made contact with boarding bridge 114. The impact resulted in damage to the engine cowl, including a tear in the intake structure, and caused damage to the boarding bridge itself.
The investigation
The GPIAAF investigation examined the Aircraft Parking Information System (APIS) used at the stand, the accuracy of airport ground charts, and the coordination between the flight crew and ground personnel. The investigation reviewed the technical reports from the APIS manufacturer, the airport operator (ANA), and the air navigation service provider (NAV Portugal). Investigators also analyzed the aircraft's livery, noting that the specific design of the OO-SNB aircraft might have influenced visual perception during docking.
Findings
- The investigation identified a discrepancy in the airport terminal building plan drawings, which resulted in an incorrect layout for stand 114 being represented in official charts.
- The APIS display for position 114 was not aligned with the existing gantry used for positions 115, 116, and 117, leading to potential confusion.
- There was a lack of sufficient assistance from a marshaller during the final stages of the parking maneuver.
- The aircraft's specific livery was noted as a factor that could affect the crew's visual assessment of distances during docking.