What happened
On January 10, 2016, a De Havilland Canada Dash 8 (400) was taxiing at Warsaw Chopin Airport (EPWA) following its landing. The aircraft was following a Follow Me vehicle along taxiway M3, heading toward parking stand 42. As the crew was turning from the taxiway onto the parking stand, they were forced to bring the aircraft to a complete stop. This emergency braking was necessary because a Mulag-type tractor, which was towing mobile stairs and operating as a Follow Me vehicle, had driven directly into the path between the aircraft and the lead vehicle.
After the tractor had cleared the area, the aircraft was able to continue its taxi to the assigned parking position without further incident.
The investigation
The investigation reviewed airport surveillance footage, which confirmed the sequence of events. The analysis established that the incident occurred due to a violation of the Warsaw Chopin Airport Vehicle and Pedestrian Traffic Instructions. Specifically, the regulations prohibit any vehicle from occupying or crossing the gap between an aircraft and a Follow Me vehicle while it is transmitting signals.
Findings
- The primary cause was human error, as the vehicle operator failed to exercise due caution within the maneuvering area and did not yield the right-of-way to the taxiing aircraft.
- The operator held a valid permit to drive within the airport premises at the time of the event.
Safety action
Following the incident, the airport authorities took the following actions:
- The driving permit of the operator involved was suspended, and the individual was required to undergo retraining and a new examination.
- Training materials and examinations for personnel seeking permits to operate vehicles in the maneuvering area were updated to emphasize the specific hazards of vehicles crossing the path of taxiing, pushing, or towing aircraft.