Casualties unknown

Ground Collision During Push-Back at Memphis International Airport (N922VV)

Memphis, TN, US

On January 10, 1995, a Douglas DC-9-32 (registration N922VV) was involved in an aviation accident near Memphis, TN. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: THE GROUND PERSONNEL'S IMPROPER HANDLING OF THE AIRCRAFT WHILE IN TOW, AND THE OPERATOR'S FAILURE TO PROVIDE SUFFICIENT REQUIREMENTS FOR THIS SITUATION. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 2026-06-10Data APIEditorial standards

An aircraft collided with a tug during push-back at Memphis International Airport after the operation was halted for late passengers. The airplane over-ran the tug when brakes were applied.

Incident Overview

A ground collision occurred between an aircraft and a tug during push-back operations at Memphis International Airport. The incident took place as the aircraft was being pushed back for taxi.

Sequence of Events

The push-back had commenced when the gate agent halted the operation to allow late-arriving passengers to board. According to the tug driver, after repositioning the airplane in the gate area, he applied the tug's brakes. At that point, the airplane over-ran the tug. Both engines of the aircraft had been started during the push-back procedure.

Operator's Response

Following the incident, the operator issued a bulletin to all flight crews prohibiting the forward towing of the airplane with engines operating.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001207X02821. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.