Probable cause
The ground crew's failure to maintain clearance from the light pole while directing the airplane to parking.
NTSB analysis
The airplane was taxiing to the parking area when the right wing tip struck a light pole. The taxiway markings on the ramp were obscured by snow, and the airplane was being guided by ground handlers, including a wing-walker positioned at the right wing tip. The taxi speed was low due to the snow cover and positive contact with the ground handlers was maintained by the flight crew. The flight crew did not feel the impact with the light pole and were not aware of the accident until notified by company maintenance personnel after parking.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for CEN09LA114 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Dec 23, 2008
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Rockford, Illinois
- Nearest airport
- Rockford International (RFD)
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Night
Boeing 747-212B
- N-number
- N486EV
- 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.