Incident Details
On 15 August 2014, a Cessna 182 departed from Gdańsk Lech Wałęsa Airport (EPGD). Shortly after takeoff, the pilot heard a thumping noise from outside the aircraft. Suspecting a problem, the pilot requested and received clearance from the controller to return to the airport.
After landing and taxiing to the parking apron, the pilot inspected the aircraft and discovered that a piece of a travel bag strap was protruding from the door, having been pinched shut. The pilot then exited the aircraft and performed an external inspection, finding no other abnormalities. Satisfied with the condition, the pilot requested clearance to taxi and depart again, which was granted, and the aircraft took off without further incident.
Cause
The investigation determined that the cause of the incident was the pilot's inattention while boarding the aircraft, which allowed the bag strap to become caught in the door.
Safety Recommendations
No safety recommendations were issued by the investigating body.