What happened
On June 10, 2016, an incident occurred at Warsaw Chopin Airport (EPWA) involving an Embraer 170 during a pushback operation from parking stand number 23. While the aircraft was being pushed back from its stand, a ground vehicle drove behind the aircraft's tail section. The pushback coordinator observed the approaching vehicle and immediately halted the movement of the aircraft to prevent a collision.
The investigation
The investigation established that the driver of the vehicle held all necessary valid qualifications and training required for operating on the airport apron. The driver reported seeing the aircraft at stand 23 with its anti-collision lights activated. While the driver had stopped the vehicle in accordance with regulations, the pushback coordinator simultaneously signaled the tug operator to begin the pushback and indicated the direction of movement. The driver, observing the coordinator's signals, misinterpreted the commencement of the pushback as a signal authorizing the vehicle to proceed across the path of the aircraft.
Findings
- The primary cause of the incident was human error resulting from the driver's failure to adhere to established procedures regarding vehicle and pedestrian movement on the airport apron.
- A misinterpretation of manual signals led the driver to believe they had clearance to proceed while the aircraft was in motion.