What happened
On the morning of an unspecified date, a PA34-220T aircraft, registered as CX-EFM, was positioned on the apron at Carrasco International Airport. The aircraft had recently been refueled and was idling with its engines running while still connected to a static line.
A pilot, who had entered the airport area in a private vehicle to complete operational paperwork, observed the aircraft and drove toward it. In doing so, the vehicle partially blocked the path of the aircraft. The pilot exited the vehicle and began using hand signals from the left side of the plane. As the aircraft began to taxi, the propeller of engine number one struck the private vehicle.
The investigation
The CIAIA investigation focused on the movements of the vehicle and the visibility of the crew. It was established that the mechanic on board the aircraft was seated on the right side and had a restricted field of view due to an opaque sunshade blocking the left side of the windshield. The investigation also noted that the private vehicle had entered the airport apron area without authorization for such maneuvers.
Findings
- The unauthorized entry of a private vehicle onto the airport apron.
- The decision to initiate aircraft taxiing without performing a complete external safety inspection.
- Obstructed visibility for the crew member due to the use of a sunshade on the windshield.
Safety action
- A recommendation was made to the DINACIA to monitor personnel involved in aircraft operations to ensure safety standards are maintained.
- A recommendation was made to improve the control of authorized vehicle circulation within airport facilities.