What happened
On February 12, 2016, a Boeing 767-300 was being pushed back from parking stand number 9 at Warsaw Chopin Airport (EPWA). The pushback operation was being conducted using a Douglas TBL 180 tow tug. During the maneuver, the aircraft's nose gear tires sustained abrasions due to contact with the airport surface.
The investigation
The investigation examined the mechanical state of the towing equipment and the maintenance protocols of the service provider, Welcome Airport Services. The inquiry focused on the inflation levels of the tug's tires and the documented inspection procedures for ground support equipment used during aircraft movements.
Findings
- The primary cause of the incident was a loss of air pressure in the right front tire of the tow tug.
- This loss of pressure prevented the aircraft's nose gear from being lifted sufficiently high, causing the tires to drag against the pavement during the pushback.
- The investigation also identified a lack of documented procedures requiring workshop mechanics to perform weekly tire pressure checks on the tug, as required by the manufacturer's specifications.
Safety action
Following the incident, the service provider implemented several corrective measures:
- An immediate pressure check was performed on all tires of the tug involved.
- A new internal procedure was established to monitor the condition and air pressure of all tires on tugs used within the Warsaw division.
- Information regarding the incident was distributed to other company branches to prevent similar occurrences across the organization.