What happened
On 27 September 1998, at approximately 17:07 UTC, a Boeing 747-400, registration B2456, was involved in a ground collision at London Heathrow Airport. The aircraft, which was operating a public transport flight, was in the process of parking at Stand H 9. During the maneuvering phase, the pilot misjudged the approach to the stand, resulting in the aircraft striking the airbridge.
There were no fatalities and no injuries reported among the 19 crew members or the 267 passengers on board. The impact caused substantial damage to the aircraft's engine cowling as well as the airbridge structure.
The investigation
The investigation was initiated following the submission of an aircraft accident report by the pilot. Investigators examined the circumstances surrounding the arrival and parking sequence at the stand. The commander, who possessed an Airline Transport Pilot's Licence and significant experience on this aircraft type, provided information regarding the event.
Findings
- The collision was the result of pilot error during the approach to the parking position.
- The aircraft's engine cowling and the airport's airbridge sustained substantial damage.