What happened
On September 19, 2019, a Cessna 150-J, registration LV-CHF, was performing a local flight instruction mission at Morón Airport in Buenos Aires. After landing, the instructor requested taxi instructions from the control tower to proceed from taxiway "A" toward the northeast apron.
Upon reaching the holding point, the instructor requested authorization to cross the runway. While proceeding, the pilot observed a fuel tanker truck stationary on taxiway "E". In an attempt to pass the vehicle, the aircraft's right wingtip struck the truck's rearview mirror. The collision caused significant damage to the aircraft's engine, propeller, and the leading edge of the wing root, while the truck sustained minor damage to its right side.
The investigation
The investigation examined the coordination between air traffic controllers and the operational environment at Morón Airport. It was established that the controller managing surface traffic was simultaneously handling multiple frequencies, leading to a high workload. The investigation found that the truck driver did not meet the regulatory requirements for operating within the maneuver area, though an informal authorization existed that was known to aviation authorities.
Furthermore, the investigation looked into the lack of a formal aerodrome manual and the absence of a Surface Movement Guidance and Control System (SMGCS). The lack of paved perimeter taxiways forced vehicles to use routes that intersected with aircraft paths, contributing to the complexity of the ground operations.
Findings
- The primary cause of the collision was the failure of the aircraft crew to communicate the presence of the obstacle while attempting to maneuver around the truck.
- There was a critical lack of coordination between the controllers managing the different communication frequencies (CANAD, Surface, and Tower).
- The fuel truck was operating under an informal authorization rather than following established regulatory requirements for the maneuver area.
- The absence of an official aerodrome manual led to the adoption of informal, unsafe driving practices, such as the truck positioning itself on the left side of the taxiway, encroaching on the active path.
- The lack of a formal Surface Movement Guidance and Control System (SMGCS) prevented effective monitoring of ground traffic.
Safety action
The investigation issued several recommendations to the National Civil Aviation Administration (ANAC), including the urgent need to develop a formal aerodrome manual for Morón and to implement a Surface Movement Guidance and Control System (SMGCS). Additionally, recommendations were made to improve the maintenance of airport signage and to ensure all vehicles operating in maneuver areas are equipped with VHF radios for direct communication with controllers.