What happened
On 6 April 2013, a Flydubai Boeing 737-800, registration A6-FDE, was parked at Stand E-10 at Dubai International Airport, preparing for a scheduled flight to Doha. During the pre-departure process, the flight crew felt a physical shock to the airframe. Upon inspection, it was discovered that two empty containers had been blown off 10F dollies by high winds and struck the aircraft.
The impact caused significant damage to the port side of the aircraft, aft of the wing, including two tears and a puncture to the lower fuselage. During the ensuing situation, ground staff attempted to intercept the moving containers; in the process, one maintenance worker sustained minor facial bruising.
As the 178 passengers were being disembarked, the high winds—which reached 45 knots during a sandstorm—continued to displace equipment. Four additional containers from an adjacent bay moved toward the aircraft, and a subsequent strike by two more containers caused further damage to the airframe. The aircraft was subsequently grounded for repairs.
The investigation
An investigation by the GCAA AAIS focused on the movement of the Unit Load Devices (ULDs) and the effectiveness of weather response protocols. Investigators examined meteorological data, which confirmed that the incident occurred during a period of heavy wind and reduced visibility.
While the airport and ground handler had established communication networks for weather alerts, the investigation looked into why the containers were not properly stabilized. The team also reviewed the operational procedures of the ground handling agent, DNATA, and the existing instructions for terminal operations regarding the securing of loose equipment during adverse weather.
Findings
- The primary cause of the impact was that the containers had not been secured to their dollies.
- Existing protocols between the airport authority and the ground handler regarding adverse weather operations were not implemented.
- Although weather warnings had been issued, the ramp agents' manual lacked detailed procedures for managing operations specifically during high-wind events.
- There was a lack of a designated secured area at Terminal 2 for storing dollies and containers, leaving them exposed to the elements.
Safety action
Following the investigation, several safety recommendations were issued:
- The GCAA was advised to review Civil Aviation Regulations to improve how local meteorological agencies disseminate adverse weather information.
- A review of the Aerodrome Contingency Plan was recommended to ensure high-wind forecasts are effectively communicated to ground handlers.
- Dubai Airports was advised to establish an oversight system to ensure ground handling agents take necessary actions to secure equipment during severe weather.