What happened
On 5 August 2008, an Airbus A320-211, registration D-AIQA, was taxiing via Taxiway Juliet at Manchester Airport toward a runway intersection takeoff. The aircraft had been instructed by the Aerodrome Controller to hold at a specific position. While stationary, the tail of the A320 extended into the main taxiway.
Following this, a Boeing 737-86N, registration EI-DKD, was taxiing toward the same area. The crew of the 737 received instructions to give way to the A320. As the 737 passed behind the stationary Airbus, its right winglet struck the underside of the A320's tail. The impact caused the top portion of the 737's winglet to detach and resulted in damage to the A320's right elevator, tail cone, and APU access panel. There were no injuries to the passengers or crew on either aircraft.
The investigation
The investigation examined the cockpit voice recordings and flight data from the 737, which revealed that the crew experienced uncertainty regarding their clearance. The commander noted that the instruction to "give way" caused confusion, as he interpreted the clearance to a specific holding point as an indication that the path was clear of obstacles. The crew also observed ripples in puddles caused by the A320's engines, which led them to believe the Airbus was increasing power to move forward.
Investigators also reviewed the Aerodrome Controller's actions. While the controller had issued a warning regarding wingtip clearance, the angle and distance from the Visual Control Room made it difficult to intervene before the collision occurred. The investigation also noted that the A320 had stopped 24.2 m short of the stop bar.
Findings
- The commander of the 737 misunderstood the air traffic control instruction, believing the clearance allowed him to proceed past the A320.
- The crew's misinterpretation of the 'give way' instruction led to the wingtip striking the tail of the stationary aircraft.
- Visual cues, such as engine jet wash, led the 737 crew to believe the A320 was about to depart, influencing their decision to proceed.
- The controller's view from the tower was insufficient to prevent the collision despite the warning issued.