What happened
On 27 September 2001, an Airbus A319-132, registration G-EUPV, was taxiing to Stand A9 at London Heathrow Airport following a scheduled public transport flight from Belfast. The conditions at the time were clear, with the airport stand being illuminated by floodlights following sunset.
Due to the restricted maneuvering space at Stand A9, airport procedures require the left engine of an Airbus A3/19 to be shut down before the aircraft begins its turn onto the stand. The commander complied with this requirement, shutting down the engine before proceeding along the yellow centerline and following the automatic stand guidance system. During this maneuver, the port engine cowling struck a baggage belt loader that had been left unattended on the stand. The commander was unaware that a collision had occurred until the aircraft had come to a complete stop and the engine shutdown process was finished.
The investigation
Investigators examined the sequence of events leading to the contact between the aircraft and the ground vehicle. The investigation focused on the visibility of the belt loader and the effectiveness of the stand guidance system. While the automatic guidance lights were active—signaling to the flight crew that the area was clear—it was unclear if the stand had been improperly inspected prior to the lights being activated, or if the vehicle had moved into the path of the aircraft after the check was completed.
Findings
- The collision resulted in damage to the port engine cowling.
- There were no injuries to the 8 crew members or 55 passengers on board.
- The unattended baggage belt loader was positioned in the aircraft's path during the turn.
- Although the commander is ultimately responsible for ensuring the stand is clear, the crew did not observe the vehicle despite the use of the automatic guidance system and floodlighting.