What happened
On January 21, 2025, at approximately 12:54 local time, a Boeing 787-9 operated by a Dutch airline was undergoing a pushback procedure at Arturo Merino Benítez International Airport (SCEL) in Santiago, Chile. The aircraft was being moved using a tug and towbar as part of its departure preparations for a scheduled passenger flight.
As the pushback maneuver was nearing completion and the aircraft was close to being disconnected from the ground equipment, the number 2 (right) engine experienced an unintended acceleration. This sudden increase in thrust caused the aircraft to move approximately 9 meters toward the left side of the taxiway, resulting in damage to the towbar used during the operation. There were no injuries to the flight crew, cabin crew, or the 273 passengers on board, and the aircraft itself sustained no damage.
The investigation
DGAC Chile investigators examined the scene and the aircraft following the event. The investigation confirmed that the movement of the aircraft was a direct result of the engine's unexpected power increase. Physical inspections of the aircraft were conducted alongside specialist technicians from both the airframe and engine manufacturers.
Following the incident, the operator performed engine run-up functional tests. These inspections, which included reviews of engine control systems and operational functionality, revealed no mechanical failures or defects in the engines or the airframe. The investigation also noted wear on the nose gear tires resulting from the movement, though the nose gear system itself remained undamaged. The manufacturer's technical teams found no evidence of damage or malfunctions in the engines or the aircraft systems.
Findings
- The primary factor in the aircraft's unintended movement was the unintended acceleration of the number 2 engine.
- The movement caused the aircraft to deviate approximately 9 meters from its intended path.
- The towbar used during the pushback maneuver sustained damage during the incident.
- Post-incident functional testing of the engines and airframe by the operator and manufacturers showed no identifiable mechanical faults or damage.