On January 30, 1989, a Swearingen SA-227-AC (registration N169SW) was involved in an aviation accident near Salt Lake City, UT. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: THE FAILURE OF THE CAPTAIN TO MAINTAIN A VISUAL LOOKOUT WHILE TAXIING HIS AIRCRAFT, INADVERTENTLY ALLOWING HIS AIRCRAFT TO CREEP INTO THE STATIONARY AIRCRAFT IN FRONT OF HIM. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
Two aircraft collided on the taxiway after a period of slow, stop-and-go taxiing. The captain reported his aircraft crept forward, striking the preceding aircraft's tail with its propeller.
Incident Details
Two aircraft sustained substantial damage during a ground collision while taxiing at an airport. The collision occurred after a prolonged period of slow, stop-and-go movement in a taxi line of 10 aircraft waiting for takeoff. The aircraft had been taxiing for approximately 20 to 30 minutes when they came to a stop again.
Captain's Account
The captain of the striking aircraft stated that he was cleared by air traffic control ground control to proceed in the taxi line. He reported that without realizing it, his aircraft began to creep forward and eventually the right engine propeller struck the tail of the preceding aircraft. The captain was at the controls at the time and could not recall what was occupying his attention prior to the collision.
Investigation Findings
A post-accident examination of the striking aircraft's brake system failed to reveal any malfunction. The damage to both aircraft was described as substantial. No other causal factors were identified in the investigation.