What happened
On July 8, 2011, a FOLLOW ME vehicle crew discovered aircraft components on taxiway M2 at Warsaw Chopin Airport (EPWA). Following a consultation with maintenance personnel from the operator, PLL LOT SA, the parts were identified as elements of the landing gear assembly of an Embraint ERJ-175.
Earlier that day, the aircraft, registration SP-LIL, had arrived at Warsaw from Wrocław (EPWR) operating flight LO3851. Upon arrival, maintenance technicians discovered that the brake assembly was missing several parts; specifically, only 11 of the 16 expected components were present. A subsequent check of the aircraft's previous location in Wrocław yielded no further parts.
The pilot reported that pre-flight inspections in both Wrocław and Warsaw showed no abnormalities. Brake temperatures were within normal limits, and no anomalies were noted during taxi, takeoff, or landing. However, during subsequent technical servicing, technicians identified damage to brake assemblies number 1 and 2, as well as the corresponding wheels, which required replacement.
The investigation
The investigation examined the mechanical integrity of the brake assemblies, which are manufactured by MEGGITT. It was noted that the manufacturer had not issued a modification to resolve these specific issues, providing only service bulletins with recommendations for additional inspections.
The investigation also reviewed the impact of the Improved Go-Around Procedure (IGAP), which was in effect at the time of the incident. This procedure, active from April 2011 to March 2012, resulted in increased approach and landing speeds. It was observed that following the withdrawal of the IGAP procedure, issues regarding brake assembly durability became incidental.
Due to the expiration of relevant records and the fact that the operator retains investigation results for no more than five years, the PKBWL was unable to access further data to conclude the investigation.