Primary finding
Probable cause
The ground vehicle driver’s failure to see and maintain clearance from the airplane while conducting ground operations.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
The commercial pilot stated that a vehicle struck the right wing of the airplane as he was taxiing from the non-movement area for departure. Surveillance video showed a ground service vehicle drive across the ramp and into the right wing of the airplane. The driver of the ground vehicle stated that as she was starting to speed up on the ramp, the airplane came into view. The driver attempted to stop but slid on the ice and came to rest under the airplane’s right wing. A postaccident examination of the airplane revealed substantial damage to the right wing. The pilot stated there were no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.