What happened
On October 7, 2003, at 11:55 UTC, an MD-82, registration I-SMEM, operated by Meridiana S.pA, was taxiing at Pisa Airport following a scheduled flight. While proceeding through "gate 2" toward its assigned parking position, the aircraft's left wingtip collided with a stationary Fiat-Iveco truck. The truck was positioned on the perimeter road near the intersection with gate 2.
There were no injuries among the 134 people on board (128 passengers and 6 crew members). The collision caused damage to the left wingtip of the MD-82 and severe damage to the driver's cabin of the truck. The aircraft continued its taxi maneuver to the parking area following the impact.
The investigation
The investigation examined the positioning of both the aircraft and the vehicle, as well as the adherence to airport procedures. The investigation noted that a NOTAM was in effect at the time, instructing all aircraft to taxi with caution through gates 1 and 2 due to the presence of personnel and equipment on the apron.
Regarding the truck, the driver had stopped the vehicle at the intersection, but failed to respect the horizontal road markings. Specifically, the driver had passed the flashing light signal and stopped approximately 72 meters past the designated stop sign, which requires vehicles to halt 75 meters before the intersection. The driver was also noted to have limited familiarity with the airport area.
Regarding the flight crew, the investigation found that the aircraft was following the prescribed taxiway centerline. However, the aircraft's wingspan exceeded the width of the taxiway at that specific point, meaning the wingtips extended into the area where the truck was parked. The investigation also reviewed the crew's responsibilities under the operator's manual, which mandates that the commander is responsible for obstacle separation and must stop the aircraft if any doubt arises.
Findings
- The incorrect positioning of the truck, which failed to comply with both vertical and horizontal traffic signage.
- Inadequate assessment by the commander regarding the separation between the aircraft and the stationary vehicle, despite the presence of a cautionary NOTAM.
- Suboptimal cooperation from the co-pilot, who was focused on completing after-landing checklists rather than assisting the commander in monitoring for obstacles during the taxi phase.