Taxiing Embraer collides with Airbus

Embraer E170, Washington, D.C., Feb. 17, 2008–Inadequate ground separation by the pilot of a Republic Airlines E170 was the probable cause of a taxiing collision between it and an US Airways Airbus 319. The Embraer, destined for Rochester, N.Y., was moving in the run-up area of taxiway J at Reagan National Airport when it struck a stationary A319 that was awaiting ATC clearance. The pilot of the E170 reported that he was positioned to the right of the Airbus and observed a Boeing 737 approaching the run-up area from Taxiway J to his right. The pilot told investigators that when he received ATC clearance for departure, he checked the proximity of the Airbus and believed he could safety taxi past it. The right aileron of the Airbus was substantially damaged in the collision while the Embraer sustained minor damage to its left wingtip. There were no injuries reported.