China Airlines damaged at Melbourne airport - looking like human error

A China Airlines Airbus A350-941 has been grounded at Melbourne Airport (MEL/YMML) after a jetbridge collision damaged its forward door.

CHINA AIRLINES AIRBUS A350-941 B-18902 (MSN 057)

The aircraft had arrived as flight CI-57 from Taipei (TPE/RCTP) on Tuesday morning. The aircraft was empty at the time, and no injuries were reported. The aircraft had completed an overnight flight from Taipei and landed at Melbourne Airport around 10.30am Tuesday morning.

After all passengers and crew had safely deplaned, the aircraft remained parked at the gate with the forward left-hand door open and the jetbridge still attached. Shortly after arrival, the aircraft began to roll backward unexpectedly. With the jetbridge connected and the door open, the movement caused the door to strike the jetbridge.

The impact partially tore the door off its hinges, resulting in significant structural damage to the door assembly.

The exact cause of the rollback has not been officially confirmed. However, early indications suggest that wheel chocks may not have been properly positioned in front of and behind the aircraft’s tires. This allowed unintended movement while the aircraft was still secured to ground equipment.


Such incidents highlight the importance of strict adherence to ground handling procedures, especially during post-arrival operations.

The scheduled return service to Taipei on Tuesday night was cancelled immediately. Engineers are now assessing whether the damage is limited to the door or extends into the fuselage structure, which would significantly impact repair time.

Jetbridge incidents usually stem from human mistakes or mechanical issues. In this situation, the main suspected cause is improper aircraft securing procedures, though the investigation is still in progress.

As of today, the aircraft remains grounded in Melbourne awaiting repairs.

Aircraft Information:
Airline: China Airlines  
Code: CI/CAL
Aircraft: Airbus A350-941
Registration: B-18902
Serial Number: 057
Engines: 2 x RR Trent XWB-84
First Flew: 27th October 2016
Age: 9 Years