What happened
A DC-9-30 was taxiing into an alleyway entrance located between terminal concourses after clearing the runway. During this maneuver, the aircraft's left wing struck a fuel truck that was traveling from left to right on a service road.
The fuel truck had emerged from behind a stopped airplane and was approximately 150 feet beyond a vehicle stop sign at the time of the incident. The driver of the fuel truck reported stopping at the stop sign prior to crossing the alleyway entrance; notably, the stop sign only required a stop if aircraft were present. Additionally, ground drivers were instructed that airplanes maintain the right of way over vehicles.
As the fuel truck moved past the stopped airplane, the driver observed the DC-9 and attempted to stop and back out of the way, but the collision occurred. Evidence from the scene included 47 feet of skid marks left by the aircraft's left main landing gear tire on the ramp.
Findings
The investigation identified significant visibility limitations for both parties involved. The fuel truck driver's view to the right was obstructed by equipment mounted on the truck and the presence of the stopped airplane. Similarly, the pilot's visibility to the left was restricted by the same stopped airplane.