What happened
On May 9, 2016, an incident occurred at Warsaw Chopin Airport (EPWA) involving a DE HAVILLAND, Dash 8 (400). While the aircraft was taxiing toward parking stand number 41, a driver operating a ground service vehicle on the service road alongside taxiway "M" caused the aircraft to stop. The vehicle was traveling ahead of the aircraft, but as it approached the area near parking stands 30 through 40, the distance between the vehicle and the aircraft decreased significantly. Consequently, the flight crew decided to halt the aircraft's progress before the plane could turn from taxiway "M" onto stand 41.
The investigation
The PKBWL investigation utilized CCTV footage and statements from the driver to reconstruct the sequence of events. The investigation established that the driver held valid permits to operate vehicles on the airport apron. Investigators also noted that simultaneous ground servicing of another aircraft at stand 42 may have obscured the visibility of the "Follow Me" vehicle at stand 41, potentially complicating the driver's ability to monitor the taxiing aircraft.
Findings
- The primary cause of the incident was human error, specifically an incorrect assessment by the driver regarding the distance between the vehicle and the taxiing aircraft.
- A contributing factor was the ongoing maintenance activity at a nearby parking stand (stand 42), which likely hindered the observation of the vehicle's position relative to the aircraft.
- The investigation noted a recurring difficulty in monitoring aircraft taxiing on taxiway "M" toward stands 31B through 45, often due to a lack of clear indicators regarding the aircraft's final destination.
Safety action
Following the incident, the driver's airport driving privileges were revoked, and the individual was slated for remedial training and examination. The incident was also reviewed with all relevant personnel through explanatory briefings.