Snail Dave...
I agree partially...obstructions is a broad term...I should have specified fixed obstructions....which in this case, the lack of clearance to the beginning of the ramp would be.
I just cannot believe all the garbage about the taxy speed of the A380 being a factor...if an aircraft is certified for operations on a particular runway or taxiway, it is the airport operator's duty to ensure the operators are aware of the necessary margins....if the Comair operator had been advised that stopping where they did would encrouch on the wing clearance for the Super weight class, I am sure they would have done something else...as it is, and with every accident, you cannot put 100% blame anywhere.
I see the NY Airport operator with the biggest responsibility here, ATC procedures second , Comair third and Air France last.
As for my experience...ATC and Pilot for many years...now retired.