What happened
On March 31, 2015, at Warsaw Chopin Airport (EPWA), the crew of a Boeing 737-8Z9 W reported a possible bird strike while taxiing to stand 46R. The crew indicated that the impact likely occurred in the touchdown zone of runway 33. Following this report, the Tower controller notified the Duty Operations Manager (DOP) to inspect the runway for any debris.
During the inspection period, several other aircraft operations occurred. An Embraer 170 (E170) was cleared to land on runway 33, and an Embraer 190 (E190) was cleared for takeoff from runway 29. The duty manager utilized a vehicle to traverse runway 33, checking the area from taxiway H through to the touchdown zone. After completing the inspection, the manager reported that the runway was clean and no animal remains were found. The Boeing 73 and the E170 showed no visible signs of damage.
The investigation
The investigation examined the sequence of communications between the Tower controller, the ground controller, and the Duty Operations Manager. The inquiry specifically looked at the timing of the landing clearance for the E170 relative to the report of the strike and the subsequent runway inspection. The investigation also verified the credentials and recent emergency training of the air traffic controller on duty.
Findings
- The report of the bird strike by the Boeinc 737 crew was initially imprecise; while the crew reported a strike, the subsequent inspection by the Duty Operations Manager found no evidence of an animal impact.
- The investigation noted a discrepancy in the initial report regarding the timing of the E170 landing clearance; however, it was established that the E170 crew was informed of the potential strike and chose to continue their approach.
- The air traffic controller's actions were found to be in compliance with established procedures and local operating instructions.
- The Duty Operations Manager's inspection confirmed the runway was clear of all debris.