On October 4, 1991, a Mcdonnell Douglas DC-8-63F (registration N952R) was involved in an aviation accident near Dfw Airport, TX. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to ensure adequate clearance while taxiing, compounded by the placement of an unattended maintenance stand beyond the marked taxiway clear zone. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A cargo aircraft sustained damage to its left wing tip and spilled fuel after striking an unattended maintenance stand left beyond the taxiway clear zone during ramp operations.
What happened
A cargo transport aircraft was taxiing toward the cargo ramp with the intention of unloading its freight. During this maneuver, the left wing tip made contact with a large portable maintenance stand. The stand had been positioned nine feet beyond the marked taxiway clear zone and was left unattended at the time of the incident. The collision resulted in the outboard 18 inches of the left wing tip being torn off. Additionally, the impact caused a spill of approximately 75 to 80 gallons of fuel.
The investigation
The examination focused on the circumstances surrounding the taxiing operation and the placement of ground equipment. It was determined that the maintenance stand was located outside the designated safe area for aircraft movement.
Probable cause
The pilot's failure to ensure adequate clearance while taxiing, compounded by the placement of an unattended maintenance stand beyond the marked taxiway clear zone.
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