Incident
On 3 December 2014 at 0815 UTC, a Boeing 737-8AS (registration EI-EXF) was struck by a baggage tractor at London Stansted Airport. The aircraft had just completed a commercial passenger flight and all passengers had disembarked. The tractor was approaching the forward cargo hold to offload baggage when it impacted the fuselage. The crew felt the impact, and the commander subsequently discovered dents and scrapes on the right lower fuselage skin.
Damage
The damage extended approximately 1.5 meters forward from the cargo hold bay. The aircraft was removed from commercial service for several days to undergo repairs.
Investigation
The ground handling company conducted an investigation. It determined that the tractor driver attempted to begin offloading bags without assistance and without using a belt loader vehicle. Company procedures require the use of a belt loader and the presence of a safety person whenever a vehicle approaches within three meters of an aircraft. These procedures were not followed; the driver sought to expedite the offload of an aircraft that had arrived ahead of schedule.
Aftermath
Following the incident, the company reviewed its procedures. Ground handling teams were re-briefed on standards and processes, and an audit was conducted.
Similar Occurrence
A similar accident occurred on 17 December 2014, involving another Boeing 737-8AS (registration EI-EBR) at London Luton Airport.