Large Transport; Low Wing; 2 Turbojet Eng
Flight Crew Total 9708
Situational Awareness
Conflict Ground Conflict; Critical; Deviation / Discrepancy - Procedural Published Material / Policy; Flight Deck / Cabin / Aircraft Event Illness / Injury
Flight Crew Took Evasive Action; General Physical Injury / Incapacitation
Company Policy; Environment - Non Weather Related
Our aircraft was pushed back then we were given a right turn out. As I moved the aircraft forward and started the right turn; a tug moved into the path of the left wing. Not knowing the drivers intent and in order to prevent any accident/injury; I had no option but to bring the aircraft to a quick stop. With the sudden stop; two of flight attendants reported that they sustained minor injuries. I asked the flight attendants if we needed to return to the gate but they both said they were OK to continue. I made a call to Ramp to inform them of this incident and asked them to inform the tug driver how his/her actions affected our operation. Upon our arrival the two of the flight attendants told me what injuries they sustained. #1 Flight Attendant hit her ribs against a cart in the Business Galley and #2 Flight Attendant hit her knee against a cart in the Coach Galley. Have all ground equipment and vehicles hold their position and give way to aircraft under power until the aircraft has left the ramp area. Proper training for operators of the equipment which transit any ramp and insuring the operator understands the limitation of aircraft when maneuvering on the ramp.
Two flight attendants were injured when an air carrier Captain made an abrupt stop while taxiing at DFW in order to avoid hitting a tug.