What happened
On the night of January 10, 1995, a Boeing 737-2B6C Advanced, registration CN-RMN, was performing a scheduled cargo flight from Paris Charles de Gaulle to Marseille. During the taxi phase, the aircraft was directed by ground control to move from parking position P74 toward the holding point for runway 27 via taxiways K, F3, F2, and F1.
Due to ongoing construction work on several taxiways, the aircraft's path was restricted. While navigating the area, the crew mistakenly entered the Romeo apron. As the aircraft passed under the southern de-icing cranes, the wingtips struck the guy cables supporting the northern de-icing cranes. The crew did not perceive any impact during the taxi, and no cockpit alarms were triggered at the time of the collision.
Upon takeoff, as the flaps were retracted, a 'LEADING EDGE FLAPS TRANSIT' warning light illuminated briefly. The crew, having experienced a similar indication error on a previous flight, interpreted the light as a sensor malfunction rather than structural damage. The flight proceeded to Marseille without further incident.
The investigation
The investigation focused on the aircraft's movement through the Romeo apron and the visibility of ground markings. Investigators examined surface radar data, which confirmed that the aircraft deviated from its assigned path at taxiway F1. The investigation also reviewed the ground lighting system, noting that the taxiway centerline lighting between F1 and the runway 27 holding point was defective.
Furthermore, the investigation looked into the communications between the ground controller and the crew, as well as the visibility of ground markings under the prevailing weather conditions, which included light rain and intermittent drizzle.