ERJ145 flight crew reported a critical ground encounter while being marshaled into gate by a new hire crew. The marshaling crew inadvertently directed the aircraft to collide with with a baggage cart.
Synopsis
ERJ145 flight crew reported a critical ground encounter while being marshaled into gate by a new hire crew. The marshaling crew inadvertently directed the aircraft to collide with with a baggage cart.
Narrative
After being cleared to Gate XX via Ramp Control we approached the gate; initially we were waved in by the entirely new hire ramp crew; and I checked to my right and ensured our box was clear. Then; all in quick succession (less than 2 seconds by my judgement) the walker for the right wing started seeming unsure; at which point we saw a manager come running towards us as the 'X' was flashed by the ramp crew. The Captain applied brakes promptly as I turned my head to look at the wing; at which point the right wingtip impacted a baggage cart in use at Gate XY. At that point; we stopped; and applied the parking brake and began to assess the situation. After speaking to ops we waited around 20 minutes for photos to be taken by ground crew; after which a ramp manager instructed us to shut down the engines and be towed in. The rest of the process continued without incident. Upon my post flight inspection; there was damage to the right wing nav light and wingtip fairing.Ramp management should be in a marshaling position with new hires instead of training all 3 from a distance. Flight crews should increase situational awareness in tight; busy gate areas.
Second reporter narrative
Taxiing to our gate; XX into ZZZ1; I initially followed the guidance from the lead ground guide at our gate to continue forward. Both wing walkers signaled that we had clearance. I checked to my left to ensure we had clearance; and that the painted box at our gate was cleared when I perceived the left wing walker to be confused with his wand signaling - his arms weren't fully extended. I turned to see the lead ground guide signaling us to stop as a ground manager rapidly walked past the lead ground guy signaling us to stop as well. I began to slow down to a stop when the right wing tip made contact with a baggage cart located near Gate XY. About 20mins elapsed before we were tugged into the gate. Passengers deplaned without further incident.All three positioned ground crew were new. Perhaps include a trainer/manager in at least one of those positions to ensure positive control. Flight crew should continue to increase vigilance in congested terminal alleys.
Source: NASA Aviation Safety Reporting System (public domain). Reports are voluntary submissions and are not verified by NASA.