Boeing 777-200, N781AN and Airbus A340-300, TC-JDK, 6 November 2005

• From: Air Accidents Investigation Branch
• Published: 10 December 2014

• Category: Commercial - fixed wing
• Report type: Bulletin - Field investigation
• Date of occurrence: 6 November 2005
• Aircraft type: Boeing 777-200 and Airbus A340-300
• Location: Holding Area Runway 27L, London Heathrow Airport
• Registration: N781AN and TC-JDK

Boeing 777-200, N781AN and Airbus A340-300, TC-JDK

Summary:

Aircraft entering the Holding Area prior to departure from Runway 27L at London Heathrow Airport, initially follow a single yellow taxiway centreline, which splits into two parallel lines within the holding area. This is wide enough for two ‘heavy/widebody’ aircraft to position side by side when lined up on the parallel lines. Prior to departure, a Boeing 777 (B777) was holding, in turn, at N2W behind a Boeing 737-800 (B737), in the Holding Area. Whilst in this position, an Airbus A340 (A340) was instructed to taxi to N2E. As it passed behind the B777, the A340’s right winglet made contact with the B777’s left elevator and its left wing tip. The A340 had not reached the section of the line parallel to that upon which the B777 was parked. This accident happened at the same location as a collision between similar aircraft types reported in AAIB Bulletin 9/2005, reference EW/C2004/07/03. Two recommendations are made addressing the issues of the design and operation of the Holding Area for Runway 27L at London Heathrow Airport.

Download report:

Boeing 777-200, N781AN and Airbus A340-300, TC-JCK 08-06.pdf (533.43 kb)

Published 10 December 2014