What happened
On June 15, 2006, a Boeing A-75N1 Stearমানিক (registration N-55097) was involved in a ground collision at Mladá Boleslav Airport (LKMB). The aircraft had landed earlier that day to participate in the Dobový Air Day and was initially parked near the aviation fuel station. The pilot decided to move the aircraft to a hangar, started the engine, and began taxiing along the asphalt path.
As the pilot approached the junction where the taxiway meets the apron in front of the hangar, they attempted to maintain clearance between the left wing and a parked Z 43 aircraft. While focusing on the clearance on the left side, the pilot failed to notice several passenger vehicles parked on the right edge of the apron. Consequently, the right lower wing of the Boeing A-75N1 Stearman struck the front right pillar of a parked Škoda Superb (registration 5S0 5623). The pilot stopped the aircraft and shut down the engine immediately following the impact.
There were no injuries to any persons involved.
The investigation
The ÚZPLN investigation examined the pilot's actions, the aircraft's movement, and the airport's ground operations. The investigation established that the pilot was properly qualified and experienced, with 940 total flight hours, including 350 hours on this specific type. The investigation also noted that the pilot was aware of the limited forward visibility during taxiing and proceeded with the maneuver knowing that obstacles were present on the apron.
Furthermore, the investigation found that several vehicles were parked on the apron in violation of the Mladá Boleslav Airport Rules, which prohibit such parking. The investigation also noted that the airport operator had tolerated the presence and parking of vehicles in this area.
Findings
- The pilot failed to ensure sufficient clearance on the right side of the aircraft while focusing on maintaining distance from the aircraft on the left.
- The primary cause was pilot carelessness while taxiing around obstacles created by vehicles parked in violation of airport regulations.
- The presence of parked vehicles on the apron was permitted by the airport operator, contrary to established airport rules.
- The aircraft sustained a 350 mm dent on the leading edge of the right lower wing and a crack in the upper wing skin.
- The Škoda Superb sustained a dented front right pillar and a cracked windshield.