Incident Overview
On 15 July 1999 at 0930 UTC, a Boeing 747-236B (registration G-BDXC) was parked at Stand W1 at London Heathrow Airport. While passengers were disembarking, a catering vehicle was marshalled into position on the right side of the aircraft.
Sequence of Events
The catering vehicle driver brought the vehicle to a stop and applied the handbrake, then released the clutch pedal. However, the vehicle was still in gear, causing it to lurch forward and make contact with the aircraft.
Damage and Injuries
The impact resulted in damage to the aircraft's right wing root fairing. No injuries were sustained by crew or passengers; the number of persons on board was not provided.
Vehicle and Aircraft Details
The Boeing 747-236B, manufactured in 1977, was powered by four Rolls-Royce RB211-524D4-19 turbofan engines. The commander held an Airline Transport Pilot's Licence, was 51 years old, and had 13,000 flying hours total (2,000 on type); his last 28 days included 75 hours.
Investigation Source
Information was obtained from an Aircraft Accident Report Form submitted by the pilot and a report from the ground handling agents.