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Night Ground Collision Between Taxiing Airplane and Tug (N556UP)

Covington, KY, US

On January 8, 2002, a Swearingen SA-227-AT (registration N556UP) was involved in an aviation accident near Covington, KY. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: the tug driver's inadequate visual lookout which resulted in his failure to see the airplane in time to prevent the collision. 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 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

While taxiing across a lighted ramp at night, a pilot braked after a tug did not yield. The tug struck the airplane's nose, causing substantial damage. The tug driver failed to see the airplane in time.

Incident Details

An airplane was being taxied across an open, illuminated ramp during nighttime operations. The pilot observed a tug approaching from the left side. When the tug did not yield the right-of-way as required by airport rules, the pilot initiated braking. Despite this action, the tug struck the airplane on the nose, inflicting substantial damage.

The tug driver later reported that he did not observe the airplane in time to prevent the collision. According to the investigation, no obstructions to visibility were present for either the pilot or the tug driver. Airport regulations explicitly require vehicles to yield the right-of-way to airplanes.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 8 Jan 2002 Swearingen SA-227-AT accident near Covington, KY?

While taxiing across a lighted ramp at night, a pilot braked after a tug did not yield. The tug struck the airplane's nose, causing substantial damage. The tug driver failed to see the airplane in time.

Were there any fatalities in the 8 Jan 2002 Swearingen SA-227-AT accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 8 Jan 2002 involved a Swearingen SA-227-AT, registration N556UP, at Covington, KY.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

the tug driver's inadequate visual lookout which resulted in his failure to see the airplane in time to prevent the collision.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20020114X00067. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.