On October 25, 2002, a Bombardier CL-600-2B19 (registration N681BR) was involved in an aviation accident near Chicago, IL. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: A bus attempting to cross the taxiway struck an airplane that was taxiing, in violation of rules granting aircraft the right of way unless otherwise instructed by the tower. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
An airplane sustained damage during taxi operations after being struck by a bus attempting to cross the taxiway at an airport where aircraft hold right of way.
What happened
The incident occurred while an airplane was taxiing on the airport grounds. During this ground movement, the aircraft was struck by a bus that was attempting to cross the taxiway. The collision resulted in damage to the airplane.
The investigation
Investigators examined the circumstances surrounding the ground operation. The focus was on the interaction between the aircraft and the bus, as well as the applicable rules governing right of way at the airport.
Findings
The ground operation rules for the airport, along with a Federal Aviation Administration Advisory Circular, establish that aircraft have the right of way. This right is maintained unless the airport traffic control tower provides different instructions. The collision occurred despite these regulations.
Probable cause
A bus attempting to cross the taxiway struck an airplane that was taxiing, in violation of rules granting aircraft the right of way unless otherwise instructed by the tower.
