Ground Collision Involving Antonov AN-26B and Twin Otter at Sentani Airport

Casualties unknown • ID

An Antonov AN-26B collided with a parked Twin Otter during taxi operations at Sentani Airport, caused by excessive taxi speed and lack of ground guidance.

What happened

On 2 December 2010, an Antonov AN-26B, registration 4L-IFE, operated by PT. Manunggal Air Service, was taxiing out from parking stand 12 at Sentani Airport, Papua, with the intention of flying to Wamena. During the maneuver, the aircraft's right wing struck a parked DHC 6 Twin Otter, registration PK-YRU, operated by PT. Trigana Air Service. The collision occurred approximately 144 meters from the original parking stand. Following the impact, the crew of the 4L-IFE aborted the flight and returned to parking stand 10. There were no injuries to the three crew members on board the Antonov.

The investigation

The investigation examined the movement of the aircraft and the ground conditions at the time of the incident. Witnesses noted that the 4L-IFE was taxiing at a speed significantly higher than normal. The inquiry focused on the lack of ground personnel and the physical layout of the apron. Investigators also reviewed the maintenance records of the 4L-IFE and the licenses of the Russian flight crew, finding both to be in compliance with regulations. Toxicological tests performed on the crew following the event returned negative results for alcohol or drugs.

Findings

  • The primary cause of the collision was that the 4L-IFE was taxiing at an excessive speed.
  • The pilot in command failed to follow established taxi-out procedures and did not maintain coordination with the co-pilot.
  • There was no marshaller present to guide the aircraft during its departure from the parking stand.
  • The apron surface lacked necessary taxi guide lines or markings.
  • The width of the taxiway was sufficient for safe operations if standard speeds had been maintained.

Probable cause

The collision was caused by the pilot operating the Antonov AN-26B at an excessive taxi speed without proper coordination, compounded by the absence of a ground marshaller and a lack of taxiway markings at the airport.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2010-12-02 aircraft accident near ID?

An Antonov AN-26B collided with a parked Twin Otter during taxi operations at Sentani Airport, caused by excessive taxi speed and lack of ground guidance.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2010-12-02 involved a aircraft, at ID.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The collision was caused by the pilot operating the Antonov AN-26B at an excessive taxi speed without proper coordination, compounded by the absence of a ground marshaller and a lack of taxiway markings at the airport.

Loading the flight search…