On February 3, 2001, a Boeing B-737-832 (registration N3735D) was involved in an aviation accident near Boston, MA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The inadequate visual lookout by the MD-81's tug driver during the pushback operation. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A Boeing aircraft stopped on a taxi line awaiting wing-walkers was struck by an MD-81 being pushed back from its gate. The tug operator reported starting pushback after observing the Boeing pass by but was distracted, losing sight of the Boeing.
Sequence of Events
The Boeing aircraft stopped on the yellow lead-in taxi line, approximately 150 feet short of the jetway, to await wing-walkers. A wing-walker arrived and instructed the Boeing to remain stationary. The MD-81 at the gate was then pushed back, during which it collided with the Boeing.
Operator Statements
The tug operator for the MD-81 stated that he began the pushback once he observed the Boeing pass by. During the pushback, the tug operator was watching the nosewheel and tow bar and was distracted by other vehicle movements. At that time, the tug operator also lost sight of the Boeing.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 3 Feb 2001 Boeing B-737-832 accident near Boston, MA?
A Boeing aircraft stopped on a taxi line awaiting wing-walkers was struck by an MD-81 being pushed back from its gate. The tug operator reported starting pushback after observing the Boeing pass by but was distracted, losing sight of the Boeing.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 3 Feb 2001 involved a Boeing B-737-832, registration N3735D, at Boston, MA.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The inadequate visual lookout by the MD-81's tug driver during the pushback operation.
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