Summary
On 30 June 2015, a Bombardier DHC-8-402Q operated by LOT Polish Airlines (PLL LOT SA) experienced an incident during takeoff at Vilnius Airport (EYVI), Lithuania. The crew initiated a takeoff roll but aborted it after observing a lack of indications from the left airspeed indicator. The aircraft returned to the parking stand, where an inspection found that the left Pitot tube cover had not been removed before flight.
Incident Details
During the takeoff roll, the flight crew detected that the left airspeed indicator was not displaying any readings. In response, they discontinued the takeoff and taxied the aircraft back to the parking position. A subsequent ground inspection revealed that the cover for the left Pitot tube was still in place. The cover was removed, and a visual check for cleanliness was performed. Additionally, tests of the Air Data Computer (ADC) were conducted, which showed no abnormalities. The remainder of the flight proceeded without further issues. The crew reported and discussed the event with LOT’s Flight Safety Board and submitted an Aviation Safety Report (ASR).
Cause
The investigation determined that the cause of the incident was a carelessly conducted pre-flight inspection.
Contributing Factors
Two factors were identified as contributing to the incident:
- The early time of day.
- The absence of a red "REMOVE BEFORE FLIGHT" warning streamer on the Pitot tube cover.
Safety Recommendations
No safety recommendations were issued by the investigating body.