Incident Description
On 29 August 2001 at 0941 UTC, a Boeing 737-59D (registration G-BVKD) had just parked on Stand C14 at London Heathrow Airport when the crew felt an impact on the forward right side of the aircraft. Investigation revealed that a baggage tug towing baggage trolleys had struck the right side of the aircraft fuselage just ahead of the forward cargo door. The front offside roof of the tug driver's cabin punctured the aircraft skin, creating a one-inch puncture.
Investigation
The tug was being driven in a mainly south easterly direction when the collision occurred. The driver stated that he had been blinded by the sun during his approach to the aircraft. No injuries were reported among the 7 crew and 42 passengers on board.
Recommendation
The AAIB noted that damage to aircraft caused by ground handling vehicles is costly to repair and, if undetected, potentially dangerous. Modern technology permits fitting proximity sensors to vehicles. Recommendation 2001-78 was made to the Airport Operators Association, suggesting they examine the feasibility and cost effectiveness of fitting proximity sensors to ground handling vehicles that routinely operate close to aircraft.