Incident Overview
A SkyWest Airlines Fairchild (Metroliner) was taxiing for takeoff in accordance with its ATC clearance for a scheduled passenger flight. The aircraft was proceeding westbound on inner taxiway Kilo at Bradley International Airport. Simultaneously, a fully loaded 10,000-gallon Jet-A fuel tanker truck, driven by a trainee driver, was proceeding eastbound on a service vehicle access road south of Kilo. The trainee was following his trainer, who was operating a similar-sized tanker truck.
Vehicle Movements
The trainer turned left (northbound), crossed Kilo near taxiway 47J, and proceeded toward the Bradley International terminal. The trainee was left alone south of Kilo. The trainee then turned left and proceeded northbound in an effort to cross Kilo.
Collision
The trainee failed to observe that Kilo was occupied by the westbound Fairchild, and the vehicles collided.
Damage and Aftermath
The collision broke the aircraft's left wing. Fuel spilled and sparks were generated. There was no fire. All occupants evacuated without further mishap.
Probable Cause
The investigation did not assign a probable cause in the provided source.