Details
On 18 January 1998 at 1005 UTC, a Piper PA-31 aircraft, registration G-EEAC, was parked at London Heathrow Airport awaiting a delivery of medical cargo. The aircraft, powered by two Lycoming TIO-540-A2C piston engines, was manufactured in 1971 and was being used for a public transport flight. The commander, aged 53, held a Commercial Pilot's Licence and had accumulated 3,750 flying hours, with 1,900 hours on type. The crew consisted of one pilot and one passenger; no injuries were sustained.
Sequence of Events
A van driver, who had delivered documentation to another company aircraft, restarted his vehicle and reversed. During this manoeuvre, the van collided with the tail of G-EEAC, causing the left elevator to buckle and dent. The driver was apparently unaware of the collision and drove off. However, the commander felt the impact and noted the van's licence number, reporting it. Additionally, other airport employees witnessed the accident and reported it to the commander.
Investigation and Outcome
The Heathrow police interviewed the driver. His parent company, in agreement with Heathrow Airport Limited (HAL), initiated a full investigation. As a result, the driver will receive full company driver training before resuming his duties. The aircraft's damage was limited to the left elevator.