Incident Overview
On January 24, 2016, at 19:22 Eastern Standard Time, Delta Air Lines flight 1409, a McDonnell Douglas MD-88 (registration N908DE), was struck by a Boeing 767 (registration N178DZ) that was under tow by a Delta Airlines ground crew in the vicinity of gate 42 at Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR), Newark, New Jersey.
Sequence of Events
After landing, the MD-88 crew taxied into the alley near gate 36, awaiting gate 41B to clear, and set the parking brake. Airport Customer Service (ACS) representatives were towing the Boeing 767 to gate 42, following a Port Authority vehicle. The ACS agents and the MD-88 flight crew reported that ramp conditions were very slushy and limited space was available. The ACS representative aboard the Boeing 767 requested that the MD-88 pull forward to allow clearance between the two aircraft. The flight crew complied, but the captain stated that he could only move about 15 to 20 feet due to the ramp conditions. Shortly afterward, the flight crew felt an impact and observed that the two aircraft had made contact. The tug driver was not aware of the impact until after arrival at gate 42.
Damage Assessment
The MD-88 sustained substantial damage to its left elevator, elevator tab, and horizontal stabilizer tip. The left winglet of the Boeing 767 received minor damage. There were no injuries to the 153 passengers and crew members on board the MD-88, the one person aboard the Boeing 767, or the four ground crew personnel.
Aftermath
The MD-88 was towed to the gate and passengers deplaned via the jetway. No further operational details were provided.