Incident
On 22 October 1998, at 1420 UTC, the crew of a Boeing 757-236 (registration G-BIKH) had just boarded the aircraft and were completing initial checks when the commander felt an impact. He switched off electrical power and left the flight deck to investigate. He observed a belt baggage loading vehicle with its front wheels off the ground and its forward end inside the forward baggage hold. No fluid leakage was noted.
Aircraft and Crew
The aircraft was a Boeing 757-236, manufactured in 1983, powered by two Rolls-Royce RB211-535C-37 turbofan engines. The flight was a public transport operation. On board were 9 crew members and no passengers. The commander, aged 50, held an Airline Transport Pilot's Licence and had 13,000 hours total flying experience, including 4,000 hours on type. No injuries were reported among crew.
Damage
The forward cargo hold and door sustained substantial damage.
Cause
The driver of the baggage loader failed to stop in time to prevent a collision with the aircraft.