What happened
On 6 May 2000, at approximately 11:44 UTC, a BAe 146-300, registration G-JEBE, was performing a scheduled passenger flight at Birmingham International Airport. Following a standard pushback from Stand 57 and receiving taxi clearance from Birmingham Ground, the pilot released the brakes to begin taxiing.
Immediately upon brake release, the right main landing gear sank into a trench that had been covered by flat steel plates. This caused the aircraft to lurch violently to the right, resulting in the number 4 engine nacelle making contact with the taxiway surface. The commander promptly shut down all four engines and initiated emergency checklists. After confirming there was no visible smoke or fire, the crew opted not to deploy fire extinguishers or order a full emergency evacuation.
Passengers were instructed to remain seated while the crew contacted the airfield Rescue and Fire Fighting Services. Eventually, passenger steps were positioned at the aircraft, allowing the 104 passengers to disembark through the left-hand side exits in an orderly fashion. While there were no injuries to passengers, three cabin crew members sustained minor injuries while moving near the rear of the aircraft.
The investigation
The investigation focused on the structural integrity of the taxiway surface and the stability of the covers used over the trench. Investigators examined the condition of the steel plates and the area of taxiway Victor adjacent to Stand 57. It was determined that the plates were not secured to the ground and that the trench lacked any temporary reinforcement, such as sandbags, to provide necessary support for the weight of a large aircraft.