Taxiing Collision Involving Two Swearingen Aircraft

Casualties unknown • Denver, CO, US

Two Swearingen aircraft were involved in a ground collision during taxi operations while lined up for departure.

What happened

During taxi operations, two Swearingen airplanes were involved in a ground collision. The pilot of the first aircraft was taxiing north for departure and came to a complete stop after encountering several company aircraft positioned ahead in the departure line. The pilot of the second aircraft was also taxiing north for departure. While the pilot of the second aircraft observed lights from an aircraft holding short of runway 17R, he failed to see the first airplane until a collision was imminent. In an attempt to avoid the impact, the pilot of the second aircraft applied full brakes and engaged reverse thrust, but the collision occurred.

Findings

Both aircraft sustained substantial damage as a result of the impact.

Probable cause

The failure of the second pilot to see the first aircraft while taxiing north for departure.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2003-12-03 Swearingen SA226-TC accident near Denver, CO?

Two Swearingen aircraft were involved in a ground collision during taxi operations while lined up for departure.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2003-12-03 involved a Swearingen SA226-TC, registration N60U, operated by Key Lime, at Denver, CO.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The failure of the second pilot to see the first aircraft while taxiing north for departure.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20031205X02001. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.

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