A corporate pilot reported that a fuel truck struck the right aileron and wing tip during fueling operations at MMSD. An external monitor was not assisting the fuel truck operator.
Synopsis
A corporate pilot reported that a fuel truck struck the right aileron and wing tip during fueling operations at MMSD. An external monitor was not assisting the fuel truck operator.
Narrative
We were on the ferry flight to San Jose Del Cabo (MMSD) to pick up passengers and return to the US. We pre-arranged with our handling agent for a quick turn as we would need fuel. Crew consisted of the pilot flying; pilot not flying and a Flight Attendant. I was the pilot not flying on the inbound leg but would be the pilot flying back to the US. After parking on the ramp I opened the external fueling panel and door. The fuel truck was not in sight at this time. I was back on to the aircraft and in to the aft lavatory and baggage compartment. Shortly thereafter I heard a loud noise and felt the aircraft move. The pilot flying was still in the cockpit talking to our handling agent who was in the companion way; why the Flight Attendant was positioned slightly aft of the main door and forward galley. When I exited the aft lavatory; the Flight Attendant told me the fuel truck hit the aircraft. I went outside and saw that the fuel truck had damaged the right aileron and wing tip; which had to be replaced prior to flight; delaying our departure by two days. No one was outside to monitor the fuel trucks arrival. A pilot or handling agent might have been able to direct the fuel truck to park farther away from the aircraft. There should be a minimum distance between the fuel truck and aircraft. This could be marked with orange safety cones positioned by the lineman or handling agent. The ramp was congested with aircraft and there is always a language barrier.
Source: NASA Aviation Safety Reporting System (public domain). Reports are voluntary submissions and are not verified by NASA.