What happened
On 26 January 2023, a Boeing 737-900 ER, registration PK-LFO, operated by Lion Air, was involved in a serious ground incident at Mopah Airport in Merauke, Indonesia. Following the completion of engine start procedures, the flight crew prepared to taxi the aircraft from Aircraft Stand 5 toward Runway 34.
Rather than using a towing tractor, the crew performed a self-maneuver using the aircraft's own engine power. As the aircraft began a left turn onto Taxiway B, the right wingtip collided with the airport terminal building. While the flight crew heard an unusual noise, they were initially unaware of the impact and continued taxiing. The collision was eventually brought to the pilots' attention by passengers seated near the right wing, who alerted a flight attendant.
The investigation
The investigation by the KNKT focused on the procedures and infrastructure present during the maneuver. It was established that the aircraft had parked at the stand using a marshaller, stopping slightly ahead of the pilot stop line to avoid uneven apron surfaces. At the time of the incident, the aircraft was undergoing routine surveillance by aviation inspectors.
Investigators examined the apron layout and found that while markings existed for aircraft using tugs, there were no specific turn bars, alignment bars, or lead-out lines to guide aircraft performing self-maneuvering. Furthermore, the investigation noted that the airport's certification renewal process was ongoing, and a previous audit had already identified the lack of lead-out lines and self-maneuvering procedures as a deficiency.
Findings
- The aircraft was maneuvering under its own power without the use of a towing tractor.
- The apron lacked essential guidance markings, such as turn bars or alignment bars, necessary for safe self-maneuvering.
- The operator's flight documentation did not provide specific procedures for maneuvering from this particular stand.
- The airport's parking configuration (nose-in) and the lack of appropriate ground markings contributed to the inability to ensure safe clearance during the turn.