Aircraft Wing Strike with Parked Semi-Trailer during Taxi

Casualties unknown • Chicago, IL, US

An aircraft sustained damage to its left wing after colliding with a parked semi-trailer during ground operations at an airport.

What happened

During after landing ground operations, an aircraft collided with a parked semi-trailer on the taxiway. The semi-trailer had been moved from an airport construction site under the guidance of a contracted escort service.

The incident occurred when the escort vehicle led the semi-trailer along the shoulder of the taxiway rather than following established transit routes. During this movement, the semi-trailer struck a concrete bumper, prompting the driver to stop the vehicle to inspect for potential damage. At the time of the collision, the semi-trailer was positioned approximately 100 feet from the edge of the taxiway. The flight crew reported that they believed they had sufficient clearance to taxi past the stationary trailer until immediately before the impact occurred, at which point the aircraft's left wing made contact with the trailer.

There were no injuries reported in this event.

Probable cause

The escort vehicle led the semi-trailer along the taxiway shoulder instead of using established routes, resulting in the trailer being positioned in the path of the taxiing aircraft.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1991-09-23 Mcdonnell Douglas DC-9-82 accident near Chicago, IL?

An aircraft sustained damage to its left wing after colliding with a parked semi-trailer during ground operations at an airport.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1991-09-23 involved a Mcdonnell Douglas DC-9-82, registration N442AA, operated by American Airlines, at Chicago, IL.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The escort vehicle led the semi-trailer along the taxiway shoulder instead of using established routes, resulting in the trailer being positioned in the path of the taxiing aircraft.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001212X18074. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.

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