Incident Overview
On 9 September 1998 at 1040 UTC, a Boeing 757-236 (registration G-BIKU) was involved in a ground handling incident at London Heathrow Airport while operating a public transport flight with 10 crew and 158 passengers on board. No injuries were reported.
Sequence of Events
After pushback was completed, the tug driver raised the cab of his tug without first ensuring it was clear of the aircraft. The cab struck the fuselage, causing minor damage to the skin of the forward electrical bay.
Aircraft and Personnel
The aircraft (year of manufacture 1985) was powered by two Rolls-Royce RB211-535C turbofan engines. The commander, aged 49, held an Airline Transport Pilot's Licence with 13,350 total flying hours, including 7,500 hours on type. In the last 90 days he had flown 212 hours, and 62 hours in the last 28 days.
Damage
The impact resulted in minor damage confined to the fuselage skin of the forward electrical bay. No other damage occurred.