Probable cause
The collision between the tug and the airplane during towing as a result of sliding on the snow covered runway.
NTSB analysis
The airplane landed on a snow covered runway and was unable to maneuver while taxiing. The pilot requested that a tug be dispatched to tow the airplane to the gate. After the tug was connected, the airplane and tug slid on the snow and the tug jackknifed and impacted the left side of the airplane causing substantial damage. The tug was subsequently re-connected and the airplane was towed to the gate.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for CEN09LA093 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Dec 3, 2008
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Madison, Wisconsin
- Nearest airport
- Dane County Regional Airport (MSN)
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Instrument (IMC)
- Light
- Day
Mcdonnell Douglas DC-9-50
- N-number
- N782NC
- Category
- Airplane
- Damage
- Substantial
- Operating rule
- Part 121 (airline)
From the NTSB aviation accident database: N-registered aircraft, events since 2008, data through Oct 28, 2026. The file is published monthly, so the latest weeks are incomplete and recent records can change. The official source is the NTSB aviation investigation search. CheckAero is independent and not affiliated with the NTSB.