On December 1, 1987, a Piper PA-28-150 (registration N32307) was involved in an aviation accident near Middletown, PA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain adequate clearance while taxiing near ground vehicles, which resulted in a collision with a de-icer truck. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A pilot taxiing after landing struck a de-icer truck, breaking the wing tip and damaging the left wing's outer leading edge.
What happened
Following the completion of a landing, the pilot received clearance to taxi toward the parking area located at Stanbaugh's General Aviation. While navigating through the ramp environment, the aircraft encountered a maneuvering situation between a de-icer truck and an airplane that was already parked. During this specific movement, the pilot allowed the distance between the aircraft and the ground vehicle to become insufficient. Consequently, the wing tip of the aircraft made contact with the rear section of the de-icer truck. This collision resulted in the wing tip being broken off completely.
The investigation
The physical examination of the aircraft revealed significant damage to the left wing structure. In addition to the loss of the wing tip, the outer leading edge of the left wing sustained damage from the impact with the truck.
Probable cause
The pilot's failure to maintain adequate clearance while taxiing near ground vehicles, which resulted in a collision with a de-icer truck.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 1 Dec 1987 Piper PA-28-150 accident near Middletown, PA?
A pilot taxiing after landing struck a de-icer truck, breaking the wing tip and damaging the left wing's outer leading edge.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 1 Dec 1987 involved a Piper PA-28-150, registration N32307, at Middletown, PA.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The pilot's failure to maintain adequate clearance while taxiing near ground vehicles, which resulted in a collision with a de-icer truck.
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