Overview
- The AAIB’s report, published September 25, confirms a senior TUI cabin crew member suffered multiple fractures after falling when mobile stairs were moved with the aircraft door still open.
- The December 16, 2024 incident occurred during departure preparations for a delayed flight to Lanzarote at East Midlands Airport.
- Investigators found a long‑standing workaround had dispatchers performing door‑closure tasks for which they were not qualified, creating confusion over who was responsible for confirming the door status.
- A dispatcher was still on the steps and avoided falling by holding a side rail, while ramp staff assumed the door was closed and began moving the stairs after seeing no cabin light.
- Post‑accident actions include a safety alert barring dispatchers from operating or adjusting steps and a requirement for dispatchers to attend ramp team briefings to clarify roles, while EMA noted ATC initially issued a lower‑grade response due to limited visibility from the tower.