Aircraft strikes ground power unit during taxi

Casualties unknown • Denver, CO, US

An aircraft struck a disconnected ground power unit while performing a right turn during taxi, resulting in the rupture of the unit's pressure vessel.

What happened

Following the start of the number two engine, the captain signaled a ramp agent to disconnect the ground power unit (GPU). The agent signaled that the disconnection was complete, which the captain confirmed by observing that the 'EXT PWR' annunciator light had extinguished and noting zero voltage on the external power selector voltmeter.

After the number one engine was started, the captain signaled the ramp agent that the aircraft was ready to taxi. The agent provided an all-clear signal and directed the pilot to execute a hard right turn. While the airplane was pivoting to the right, the aft portion of the aircraft made contact with the GPU. This impact resulted in the rupture of the pressure vessel within the unit.

The captain noted that the disconnected GPU was not visible from the cockpit during the maneuver.

Probable cause

The aircraft struck the ground power unit while pivoting during a right turn, as the unit was not visible to the pilot from the cockpit.

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Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1992-11-15 Beech 1900C accident near Denver, CO?

An aircraft struck a disconnected ground power unit while performing a right turn during taxi, resulting in the rupture of the unit's pressure vessel.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1992-11-15 involved a Beech 1900C, registration N317BH, operated by Britt Airways, Inc., at Denver, CO.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The aircraft struck the ground power unit while pivoting during a right turn, as the unit was not visible to the pilot from the cockpit.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001211X16027. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.

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