Incident Overview
On 23 April 1999 at 2200 UTC, a Fokker F28 Mark 070, registration G-BVTF, was parked at Stand 53 of Birmingham Airport following a public transport passenger flight. The aircraft, powered by two Rolls-Royce TAY 620-15 turbofan engines and manufactured in 1995, had three crew members and 40 passengers on board. As passengers were disembarking, a baggage truck positioning adjacent to the rear cargo door struck the right inboard flap fairing.
Damage and Injuries
The collision caused the aircraft to move forward against its brakes but resulted in no injuries to passengers or crew. The baggage truck sustained damage to its windscreen, and its driver, while uninjured, suffered from shock. The aircraft's right inboard flap fairing was damaged.
Aircraft and Operational Details
The Fokker F28 Mark 070's rear cargo door is positioned beneath the right engine nacelle and in line with the right inboard flap fairing. The commander, a 37-year-old holder of an Airline Transport Pilot's Licence with 5,753 total flying hours (including 1,929 hours on type), reported that no secondary supervisory personnel appeared to be present to monitor the baggage truck during its manoeuvring.
Recommendations
In his report to the company, the commander suggested painting the inboard flap fairing orange to improve its conspicuity. The company was considering the proposal at the time of reporting.
Investigation Source
This information was derived from an Aircraft Accident Report Form submitted by the pilot.