19971218043299I

Narrative: after completing an uneventful flight from chicago, IL (ord), delta flight 1631 (dl 1631) was cleared by delta ramp control to gate C4 at Salt Lake City International Airport (slc). As dl 1631 started a left turn into gate C4, five ground personnel were present to help guide the airplane in. One person was working the stop light, one wing walker was on each wing, and two people were in front of the aircraft. The ramp area was free and clear of snow and ice and all painted lines were clearly visible to the captain. About half way through the turn, the captain stopped the airplane when he was given a red light. After several baggage carts were moved out of the way near the jetway, the captain began to move forward again after receiving a green light. The airplane completed the turn at normal speed and was aligned with the centerline guide lights and the painted centerline on the ramp. About 15 to 20 feet short of the jetway, the captain saw two ground personnel in front of the airplane looking to the left followed by a crossed arm stop signal. The green light was still on at the time. As the captain applied the brakes, he felt the airplane shudder. He stopped the airplane and applied the parking brake. The green light was still on. Investigation revealed that a lantis loader was parked between the wing lines of gates C-4 and C-6. The wheels were behind the lines, but the cab of the loader extended past the wing lines. The left wing walker, as well as other ground personnel attempted to get the attention of the stop light operator prior to the collision. The stop light operator did not see the wing walker's signal in time to stop the airplane prior to the collision. Damage to the airplane was minor and limited to the wing tip area outboard of the left leading edge flap. Delta ground personnel involved were given additional training and counseled by their supervisors. In addition, the wing walkers and stop light operator were given time off without pay. This is a final report.