What happened
On 5 November 1999, a Boeing 737-4Y0, registration G-OBMF, was undergoing a pushback procedure at London Heathrow Airport. The aircraft was positioned at Stand B2, a location situated at the end of a cul-de-sac. Due to the layout of the stand, the pushback sequence required the aircraft to be maneuvered through a 90-degree turn in one direction, followed by a 180-degree turn in the opposite direction, before it could proceed under its own engine power.
While the flight crew initially observed a standard pushback, the end of the 180-degree turn was marked by a series of audible thumps. Upon stopping, communication with ground handling personnel confirmed that the tug used for the maneuver had made contact with the underside of the aircraft. The impact resulted in damage to the radome.
The investigation
An investigation conducted by the Ramp Safety and Training Manager focused on the ground handling operations during the maneuver. The inquiry established that the tug driver had attempted to execute the turn too sharply, leading to the collision with the aircraft. The driver involved had been authorized to perform solo towing duties since September 1999.
Findings
- The primary cause of the incident was the tug driver attempting a turn that was too tight for the aircraft's clearance.
- The collision resulted in damage to the aircraft's radome but no injuries were reported.