What happened
On 19 September 2003, a chartered Dornier 328, registration OE-HMS, landed at Glasgow Airport. Following the landing, the flight crew received instructions to taxi to Area 'J'. Although this specific area is typically reserved for light, single-engine aircraft, permission had been granted for this larger aircraft to utilize the space as no light aircraft were active in the area at that time.
As the aircraft proceeded toward its parking spot, a 'follow me' vehicle provided initial guidance before departing. Responsibility for maneuvering guidance was then transferred to a marshaller, supported by wingmen positioned at each wingtip. During a left-hand turn into the designated parking space, the right wingtip of the Dostier 328 made contact with the side of a two-storey prefabricated building. The impact resulted in a four-meter gash in the structure and damage to the aircraft's right wingtip. There were no injuries to the 14 passengers or the two crew members on board.
The investigation
The investigation established that the right wingman was unable to provide continuous, unobstructed visibility to the marshaller during the turn. Although the wingman noticed the impending collision and signaled the first officer to stop the aircraft, the flight crew could not halt the movement in time to avoid the impact.
Findings
- The collision occurred while the aircraft was executing a turn into a parking position.
- The wingman's view of the marshaller was obstructed, preventing effective communication during the critical phase of the maneuver.
- The aircraft was operating in a restricted area under special permission.