Pilot Debrief

BOEING 747-212B near Rockford, IL — 2008-12-23

Final reportCEN09LA114
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Date
2008-12-23
Location
Rockford, IL, USA
Airport
RFD
Aircraft
BOEING 747-212B
Registration
N486EV
Category
Airplane
Highest injury
None
Fatalities
0
Phase of flight
Taxi

Probable cause

The ground crew's failure to maintain clearance from the light pole while directing the airplane to parking.

NTSB narrative

The airplane was taxiing to the parking area when the right wing tip struck a light pole. The taxiway markings on the ramp were obscured by snow, and the airplane was being guided by ground handlers, including a wing-walker positioned at the right wing tip. The taxi speed was low due to the snow cover and positive contact with the ground handlers was maintained by the flight crew. The flight crew did not feel the impact with the light pole and were not aware of the accident until notified by company maintenance personnel after parking.

Analysis

Primary failure mode
Human factors
First missed decision gate
Improper assessment of taxiway conditions due to snow obscuring markings.

NTSB coding

Evidence available

  • 2 docket documents
View NTSB final reportView NTSB docket

Docket documents2

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