Incident Details
On 13 May 2003 at 1500 hours UTC, an Embraer EMB-145EP, registration G-ERJA, was preparing for pushback from Stand 54L at Manchester Airport. The aircraft, powered by two Allison AE3007A1/1 turbofan engines, was on a public transport passenger flight with 4 crew and 37 passengers on board. The commander, aged 40, held an Airline Transport Pilot's Licence and had 5,700 total flying hours, including 800 hours on type.
Prior to pushback, the crew completed pre-start checks, which included a ground crew inspection to ensure all ground equipment was clear. The ground crew member, in communication with the flight crew via headset, reported that he checked beneath the aircraft and observed no obstructions. The pushback was conducted as a standard two-man operation following Manchester Airport Authority's Safety Instruction 02/2000.
Sequence of Events
After the pushback began, the aircraft moved approximately 15 metres before coming to an abrupt stop. The towbar sheared, and the ground crew informed the commander that the aircraft had struck a parked cargo van. The van had been parked for 3 to 4 minutes awaiting an inbound aircraft on the adjacent stand. It had accessed its parked position from the rear of the stand, contrary to published procedures.
Aftermath
Inspection revealed damage to the No 2 engine cowl, which was subsequently replaced. No injuries were sustained by crew or passengers. As a result of the incident, the Airport Authority reissued Safety Instruction 02/2000, and the operator of the cargo van issued a safety brief reconfirming safe working practices.