In an avoidable ground incident, a LATAM Airlines Brasil Boeing 777-32WER aircraft (registration PT-MUE) sustained damage to its fuselage skin and internal structure after being struck by a catering vehicle while parked at Milan Malpensa Airport (MXP), Italy, on 05 March. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the incident and its implications:
1. Incident Overview
- Date: 05 March
- Location: Milan Malpensa Airport (MXP), Italy
- Aircraft: Boeing 777-32WER (Registration: PT-MUE)
- Operator: LATAM Airlines Brasil
- Damage: Fuselage skin and internal structure
- Cause: Collision with a catering vehicle
2. Details of the Incident
- Aircraft Status: The aircraft was parked at the time of the incident, likely preparing for departure or undergoing routine ground handling operations.
- Catering Vehicle Involvement: A catering vehicle, used to transport food and beverages to and from the aircraft, collided with the fuselage, causing damage to the skin and internal structure.
- Avoidable Nature: The incident is classified as avoidable, suggesting that proper precautions or procedures were not followed, leading to the collision.
3. Damage Assessment
- Fuselage Skin: The outer skin of the aircraft was damaged, which could include dents, scratches, or punctures.
- Internal Structure: The internal framework of the fuselage may have been compromised, potentially affecting the structural integrity of the aircraft.
- Severity: While the exact extent of the damage is not specified, any damage to the fuselage skin and internal structure requires thorough inspection and repair before the aircraft can return to service.
4. Implications
- Operational Impact: The aircraft was likely grounded for repairs, causing potential disruptions to LATAM Airlines’ flight schedule.
- Financial Cost: Repairs to the fuselage skin and internal structure can be costly, especially for a wide-body aircraft like the Boeing 777.
- Safety Concerns: This incident highlights the risks associated with ground operations and the importance of proper training and procedures for ground handling staff.
5. Investigation and Follow-Up
- Internal Investigation: LATAM Airlines and the ground handling company at Milan Malpensa Airport likely conducted an internal investigation to determine the root cause of the incident.
- Corrective Actions: Steps may have been taken to prevent similar incidents in the future, such as:
- Regulatory Reporting: The incident may have been reported to aviation authorities, such as the Italian Civil Aviation Authority (ENAC) and the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), depending on the severity and jurisdiction.
6. Broader Context
- Ground Incidents: Ground incidents, such as collisions with vehicles or equipment, are relatively common in the aviation industry but are often avoidable with proper training and procedures.
- Aircraft Damage: Damage to the fuselage skin and internal structure can compromise the aircraft’s structural integrity, making thorough inspections and repairs essential before returning to service.
- Industry Standards: This incident underscores the importance of adhering to International Air Transport Association (IATA) and International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) standards for ground handling operations.
7. Conclusion
The collision between the LATAM Airlines Brasil Boeing 777-32WER (PT-MUE) and a catering vehicle at Milan Malpensa Airport on 05 March highlights the need for stringent safety measures during ground operations. While the damage was likely repaired, the incident serves as a reminder of the importance of proper training, communication, and adherence to safety protocols to prevent avoidable ground incidents in the future.
