Incident Overview
During a taxiing operation, the mechanic responsible for moving a Boeing 727 permitted an unauthorized avionics technician to occupy the pilot seat. This action led to the inadvertent deactivation of the brake pressurization system. Consequently, the aircraft struck a passenger jetway at the terminal gate.
Aftermath and Damage
The collision triggered a fire that destroyed the Boeing 727 and a company ground vehicle. The jetway sustained extensive damage, and the terminal gate was also damaged. A total of 11 persons were injured in the incident.
Sequence of Events
The accident occurred when the mechanic in charge of taxiing the aircraft allowed the unauthorized technician to sit in the pilot seat. During the taxi, the brake pressurization system was inadvertently deactivated, leading to a loss of braking capability. The aircraft then rolled into the jetway, sparking the fire that consumed the airplane and nearby equipment.