Nov 27, 1999
Accident
Substantial FLUSHING, NY
InjuriesNone
Phase of Flight-
ConditionsVMC
OperationFAR 121
Probable Cause
was the use of a defective tow bar, due to the lack of an adequate inspection by contract personnel, the airlines lack of an adequate preventative maintenance program for the tow bars, and the lack of oversight by the airline on the contract personnel who inspected the tow bar. A factor was the softer than specified shear pins used in the tow bar.
NTSB NYC00LA040