What happened
On 1 February 2005, an Embraer EMB-135BJ Legacy, registration HB-JEA, was taxiing on the general aviation apron at Manchester International Airport. The aircraft was being moved forward slowly under the guidance of a marshaller and two wing walkers. Prior to the movement, a Dorn and 328-100, registration G-BZOG, had arrived at the apron and was partially obstructing the path of the Embraer. Efforts by ground staff to relocate the Dornier were unsuccessful due to a nearby raised flowerbed.
As the Embraer began its taxi, the crew utilized ground personnel to navigate the tight space between the parked Dornier and other light aircraft. During a left-hand turn intended to increase clearance, the speed of the Embraer's right winglet increased. Although the right wing walker identified the impending collision and signaled a halt to the marshaller, the aircraft struck the wingtip of the G-BZOG before the crew could bring the plane to a complete stop.
The investigation
The investigation examined the movement of the aircraft and the effectiveness of the ground signaling. Flight data recorder analysis confirmed the Embraer was traveling at a speed of only 4 knots at the moment of impact. Security camera footage corroborated the accounts provided by the ground crew regarding the sequence of events.
The investigation also looked into the physical damage sustained by both aircraft. The impact caused a sharp cut in the composite leading edge of the G-BZOG wingtip, which required replacement. The HB-JEA sustained only superficial grazing to its right winglet, consisting of minor paint and tape damage, allowing it to return to base the following day.
Findings
- The collision occurred because the right wingtip of the Embraer struck the wingtip of the parked Dornier during a turning maneuver.
- The proximity of the parked G-BZOG and other light aircraft created a constrained environment that necessitated the use of wing walkers.
- While the wing walker attempted to signal a stop, the timing was insufficient to prevent the contact.
- The commander of the Embraer had implemented a safety plan involving a marshaller and wing walkers to mitigate the risks of the crowded apron, but the collision occurred despite these precautions.