Incident Overview
A private pilot operating a Cessna aircraft at Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) inadvertently taxied onto a service road instead of the intended taxiway, resulting in a collision with a stopped truck. The pilot, who had no previous experience at LAX, was unaware of the existence of airport motor vehicle traffic service roads.
Sequence of Events
Air traffic control issued the pilot a clearance to taxi. In the darkness, the pilot mistook a service road for the desired taxiway. According to a report to the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), the pilot stated he was in a hurry to fly from LAX to San Diego because he needed to return to work. While taxiing, the pilot momentarily diverted his attention to inside the cockpit. When he looked back outside, he observed a truck, but believed his right wing would clear it. However, the right wing of the Cessna struck the left rear side of the truck. The truck had stopped on the service road and was holding for air traffic.
Contributing Factors
The pilot's lack of familiarity with LAX's layout, including the service roads, along with the dark conditions and his diverted attention, led to the incorrect identification of the taxi route. The pilot's haste to depart for San Diego further influenced his actions.
Aftermath
No further details regarding injuries or damage were provided in the initial report. The incident highlights the challenges pilots face when operating at unfamiliar airports, particularly in low-visibility conditions.