An American Airlines aircraft mechanic died this week in Dallas. It is still unclear (at this writing) how the professional died, but his passing reminds us that an active ramp is a dangerous environment to even the most seasoned professional; whether you’re a mechanic, a cargo handler, fueler, or pilot completing a walk-around.
An active ramp makes the streets of Manhattan pale in comparison. According to the type of ramp (cargo or passenger) the amount of traffic is daunting. Unlike a street corner, the traffic can come from any direction; it arrives silently because many are required (rightfully so) to wear hearing protection; it comes invisibly when ramp lighting, rain and snow confuse visual perception.
But the ramp is not the only danger; activity to one’s left may divert attention away from a jetway or crew stairs not mated to the aircraft, leaving a gap to step through. The need to expedite a flight can lead to serious injury or death: a victim’s yells unheard over a pushback tug or a running APU’s/main engine’s droning.
In my past I personally knew a mechanic who was crushed to death. In another incident a mechanic was crippled under the main gear wheels of a wide-body airliner. There were others, and not just mechanics.
This unfortunate event reminds us … all of us, that awareness is life. Vision should be 360 degrees along the X, Y and Z axis. Listen, listen and then listen some more; be constantly aware of your surroundings. My condolences go to the family of the American Airlines mechanic who died. And for all of us working aviation, let’s be careful out there … please.