AAIB investigation to DH82A Tiger Moth, G-ACDC and Avions Pierre Robin CEA DR400/140B, G-BFJZ,
Taxiing into a parked aircraft, Headcorn Aerodrome, Kent, 3 September 2014.
Summary:
The pilot reported that, after landing, he was taxiing towards the hangar to park his aircraft. To reach his intended parking area, it was necessary for his aircraft to pass along a concrete taxiway, between a helicopter that had just landed and another aircraft which had just started its engine. The reported wind strength was 15 kt and the aircraft was taxiing downwind. The pilot found directional control of the aircraft, which was fitted with a tail skid, difficult whilst downwind; furthermore, the concrete provided little friction to help control the aircraft’s speed. The aircraft was not fitted with brakes and the pilot was unable to prevent his aircraft from taxiing into G-BFJZ, causing damage to both aircraft. The pilot was unhurt and, after making the aircraft safe, he and his passenger vacated it normally.
The pilot considered that, had he stopped earlier, he would not have been caught out taxiing on the concrete in gusty conditions.
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