What happened
On 22 March 2023, a Piper PA-28-161, registration G-EKIR, was preparing for a private flight from Sandtoft Airfield to Gloucester. After starting the engine, the pilot taxied from Stand 7, crossing the runway to reach a fuel uplift point via Taxiway A. During this movement, the aircraft's port wingtip collided with a delivery vehicle that was parked on the taxiway near the airfield cafe.
The collision caused damage to the aircraft's port navigation light, casing, and wingtip paintwork. The vehicle also sustained damage to its right-side panel and wing mirror. There were no injuries resulting from the incident.
The investigation
The investigation established that the delivery vehicle was positioned on the taxiway with a gap of approximately 1 to 2 metres from the edge. At the time of the event, another aircraft was also parked partially on the taxiway to the right of G-EKIR, significantly narrowing the available path. The pilot, attempting to navigate the gap, judged the space to be sufficient for the aircraft's 10.70-metre wingspan and proceeded at a slow walking pace without requesting ground assistance.
Regarding the vehicle, the driver was visiting the airfield for the first time and was unaware that entering the taxiway required specific permission from the airfield operator. The driver noted a lack of visible signage or barriers at the entrance and stated that parking behind the cafe was common practice for delivery personnel. The investigation found that the vehicle had not been granted permission to occupy the taxiway.
Findings
- The pilot misjudged the clearance between the aircraft wingtip and the parked vehicle.
- The presence of another aircraft on the taxiway further restricted the available maneuvering space.
- The delivery vehicle was parked on the taxiway without the required permission from the airfield operator.
- The vehicle driver was unaware of the necessity for authorization to enter the maneuvering area.
Safety action
- The delivery company has since instructed its drivers to use the designated car park for cafe deliveries instead of entering the taxiway.
- The airfield operator is reviewing entry signage to ensure all users are clearly notified when entering an active airfield area.