Ground observer reported a critical ground conflict. The reporter states a taxing corporate jet nearly collided with a parked helicopter.

Date: 2024-01 · Aircraft: Light Transport; Low Wing; 2 Turbojet Eng · Phase: taxi

Anomalies: conflict-ground-conflict|critical|deviation-discrepancy-procedural-published-material-policy|no-specific-anomaly-occurred-unwanted-situation

Synopsis

Ground observer reported a critical ground conflict. The reporter states a taxing corporate jet nearly collided with a parked helicopter.

Narrative

A large corporate aircraft taxied with in 5-8 inches of static parked helicopter. I was monitoring the ramp situation as the lack of corporate pilot awareness during taxi maneuvers at the Taos Regional Airport has been systemically unsatisfactory in the past; with previous collisions occurring between the static helicopter and transient taxing corporate jets. I rushed outside when it became apparent that clearance issues between the taxing jet and static helicopter might be compromised. I was unable to signal the corporate pilots or they were unwilling stop their aircraft as it appeared the clearance of the jet wing tip to helicopter rotor blade might be compromised. Aircraft taxi speed was faster than a brisk walk. There were no FBO ground guides present. The jet aircraft was taxing against the normal flow of the ramp traffic direction.Suggestion: The ramp area was mismanaged between parked aircraft and transient taxi aircraft. Upon discussion with management it was suggested the ramp area in front of the hangar should be designated a no long term fixed wing parking area; and ground marshaling should be required for all transient aircraft in this congested area. This information could be included in AWOS broadcast; AFD; multiple signage and NOTAMS. This will require the FBO to agree to this policy and procedures. Additionally the FBO is not manned during night hours; for mitigation the helicopter can remain inside the hangar at night or hazard lights could be installed around the parked helicopter.

Source: NASA Aviation Safety Reporting System (public domain). Reports are voluntary submissions and are not verified by NASA.