Pilot Debrief

DE HAVILLAND DHC-8 near Phoenix, AZ — 2009-04-21

Final reportWPR09LA211
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Date
2009-04-21
Location
Phoenix, AZ, USA
Airport
PHX
Aircraft
DE HAVILLAND DHC-8
Registration
N449YV
Category
Airplane
Highest injury
None
Fatalities
0
Phase of flight
Taxi

Probable cause

The failure of ramp personnel and the flight crew to maintain clearance from ground equipment while taxiing. Contributing to the accident was the improper positioning of the ground equipment.

NTSB narrative

The captain reported that upon arrival at the ramp area they had to wait for marshalers to arrive so that the airplane could be guided to the gate. As the marshalers were guiding the airplane, the captain lost sight of the ground power unit (GPU) on the right side and queried the first officer several times about whether they were clear of the GPU. The first officer responded that they were clear of the GPU; however, the right engine's propeller blades struck the GPU as the marshaler was crossing his arms to stop movement. The GPU struck the fuselage and damaged the propeller assembly. Federal Aviation Administration inspectors reported that the GPU was not parked in its designated spot and was located about 7 feet aft of its required parking spot.

Analysis

Primary failure mode
Human factors
First missed decision gate
Captain could have verified GPU position before taxiing into gate.

NTSB coding

Evidence available

  • CVR
  • Photos
  • 8 docket documents
View NTSB final reportView NTSB docket

Docket documents8

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