What happened
On 18 January 1998, a Piper PA-31, registration G-EEAC, was parked at London Heathrow Airport awaiting the delivery of medical cargo. During this time, a van driver arrived at the aircraft to deliver necessary documentation. After completing the delivery, the driver restarted his vehicle and attempted to reverse. During this maneuver, the van collided with the stationary aircraft.
Following the impact, the driver continued driving away from the scene without realizing a collision had occurred. However, the pilot of the aircraft felt the impact and immediately noted the license plate of the vehicle involved. Other airport personnel also witnessed the incident and alerted the pilot.
The investigation
Following the event, the pilot submitted an aircraft accident report. The Heathrow police interviewed the driver involved in the collision. Concurrently, the driver's parent company, in coordination with Heathrow Airport Limited, conducted a comprehensive investigation into the incident. The investigation confirmed that the collision resulted in structural damage to the aircraft, specifically involving a buckled and dented left elevator.
Findings
- The collision was caused by the van driver reversing into the stationary aircraft.
- The driver was initially unaware that a collision had taken place.
- No injuries were sustained by the crew or any passengers involved in the aircraft's operations.
Safety action
As a result of the investigation, the driver's employer has mandated that the individual undergo full company driver training before being permitted to resume his professional duties.