Slat failure during takeoff at Warsaw Chopin Airport

Casualties unknown • EPWA, PL

An Embraer 170-200 experienced a slat failure shortly after takeoff from EPWA, leading to an emergency return to the departure airport.

What happened

On February 19, 2016, an Embraer 170-200 was performing a takeoff from Warsaw Chopin Airport (EPWA) when an EICAS alert indicated a SLAT FAIL. Following the alert, the cockpit displays showed the slats were in position 3, while the flaps were in position 2.

The crew responded by following the established "SLAT FAILURE" checklist. To maintain safety, the crew halted the climb at 6,000 feet and decided to return to the departure airport. The aircraft landed safely using a configuration of slats in position 3 and flaps in position 5.

The investigation

Following the landing, the aircraft was handed over to maintenance personnel for inspection. During the examination of the electrical wiring for the slat positioning system, technicians identified damage within several components, specifically the LH and RH outboard skew harnesses and the LH and RH outboard skew sensors.

Findings

  • The incident was caused by a failure in the electrical wiring controlling the slat positioning system.
  • Maintenance repairs were completed in accordance with the Aircraft Maintenance Manual (AMM).
  • Post-repair testing yielded positive results, and the aircraft was returned to service.

Probable cause

A malfunction in the electrical installation responsible for controlling the slat position.

Related events

Same aircraft

All Embraer ERJ-170 accidents →

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2016-02-19 Embraer 170-200 accident near EPWA, PL?

An Embraer 170-200 experienced a slat failure shortly after takeoff from EPWA, leading to an emergency return to the departure airport.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2016-02-19 involved a Embraer 170-200, at EPWA, PL.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

A malfunction in the electrical installation responsible for controlling the slat position.

Investigation report by the Polish State Commission on Aircraft Accidents Investigation (PKBWL). Original record: https://pkbwl.gov.pl/raporty/2016-0265/. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the Panstwowa Komisja Badania Wypadkow Lotniczych (PKBWL), Poland.

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