| Occurrence Briefs are concise reports that detail the facts surrounding a transport safety occurrence, as received in the initial notification and any follow-up enquiries. They provide an opportunity to share safety messages in the absence of an investigation. |
What happened
On 29 April 2018, at 1330 Eastern Standard Time (EST), a Cessna 172N commenced taxiing on the southern apron at Archerfield, Queensland, in preparation for take-off. At the same time, a fuel truck was fuelling a Cessna 172S to the left side of the taxiway. As the Cessna 172N taxied past, the leading edge of the left wing contacted the fuel truck. The Cessna 172N was immediately stopped and the engine was shut down. Damage to the windscreen of the truck and leading edge of the Cessna 172N’s left wing was identified upon inspection. The Cessna 172N was then pushed clear of the taxiway.
A flying competition and social event was in progress, resulting in higher than normal air and foot traffic in the aerodrome vicinity. Visibility was good, with scattered cloud and a light southerly breeze.
Figure 1: Damage post incident, to the Cessna 172N and fuel truck
Source: Pilot in Command
Safety message
A number of taxiing collisions have been investigated by the ATSB, including Taxiing collision involving a Cessna 172S, VH-EOT and a Cessna 172S, VH-EOP at Moorabbin Airport, VIC on 29 January 2015 (AO-2015-011), which is available from the ATSB website. These incidents reinforce the importance of maintaining situational awareness[1] and a good lookout during taxiing, particularly in instances of higher than normal activity and distraction.
About this report
Decisions regarding whether to conduct an investigation, and the scope of an investigation, are based on many factors, including the level of safety benefit likely to be obtained from an investigation. For this occurrence, no investigation has been conducted and the ATSB did not verify the accuracy of the information. A brief description has been written using information supplied in the notification and any follow-up information in order to produce a short summary report, and allow for greater industry awareness of potential safety issues and possible safety actions.
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