What happened
On 3 March 2001, a Cessna 172N, registration G-BNKE, was taxiing at Manchester Airport for a private flight. The pilot had been cleared to proceed from the Northern Executive apron toward holding point 'D2' via taxiways 'A' and 'J'. During the taxi, the pilot received updated instructions to proceed to holding point 'F2' via 'J7'.
As the aircraft reached the intersection of taxiways ' .J' and 'D', a Boeing 777 was positioned at approximately 'D3'. To reach its assigned holding point, which had recently been vacated by another aircraft, the Boeing 777 applied power to move forward. The engine efflux from the larger aircraft caused the Cessna 172N to weathercock to the right and subsequently tip onto its left wingtip. Both occupants of the light aircraft were wearing appropriate safety restraints and sustained no injuries.
The investigation
The investigation was based on the accident report submitted by the pilot and subsequent enquiries by the AAIB. Investigators determined that the Cessna 172N was positioned approximately 102.5 metres behind the engines of the Boeing 777 when the incident occurred. The assessment of the Airfield Safety Standards Manager confirmed the proximity of the two aircraft during the movement of the heavy jet.
Findings
- The primary cause of the incident was the jet blast from the Boeing 777 engines as it applied power to advance to its new holding position.
- There was no evidence to indicate that the crew of the Boeing 777 used excessive power for the movement.
- The light aircraft suffered damage to its propeller and wing.