What happened
Two mechanics were in the process of repositioning a Boeing 73 3-200, registration N11244, to Continental departure gate 41. During this maneuver, the mechanic in the left seat did not use the mechanic taxi checklist. Following the start of the movement, the left seat mechanic reported experiencing difficulties with braking and nose wheel steering.
While the repositioning was underway, Flight 1176, a Boeing 737-300 with registration N14336, was being managed by a pushback team at gate 44. Witnesses and the crew of the pushback aircraft observed that the engines of the repositioning aircraft were set to a very high power level and that the plane was taxiing at a high rate of speed. During the movement, the right wing of N11244 struck the left outboard flap area of N14336, causing substantial damage to the wing.
Although the right seat mechanic offered to contact maintenance regarding the steering and braking issues, the left seat mechanic declined.
The investigation
Following the collision, investigators performed functional tests on the hydraulic systems of N11244. The tests confirmed that the thrust reversers, main wheel brakes, main wheel steering, and nose wheel steering were all fully operational.