What happened
On September 14, 2016, a Bombardier DHC-8-400, operated by PLL LOT SA, experienced a technical malfunction during landing on runway DS33 at Warsaw Chopin Airport (EPWA). Immediately after touchdown, a "NOSE STEERING" warning light illuminated in the cockpit. This failure resulted in the crew losing the ability to steer the nosewheel, causing the aircraft to come to a stop on the runway.
The crew notified Air Traffic Control (ATC) of the situation and proceeded to perform a system reset following the Quick Reference Handbook (QRH) procedures for nose steering. Following the reset, steering capability was restored, and the aircraft taxied to the parking stand without further incident. After the flight, the crew reported the issue to Maintenance Control Center (MCC) and the on-site mechanic, who inspected the system. Upon returning to the aircraft after passport formalities, the crew discovered the nosewheel steering switch had been left in a specific position, though the subsequent flight was completed without further issues.
The investigation
The investigation, conducted by the operator, focused on the loss of steering control and the subsequent system behavior. The investigation examined the technical logs and the physical state of the aircraft controls following the event.
Findings
- The primary cause of the incident was a momentary signal failure between the Steering Manifold and the Steering Handle.
- The crew successfully restored functionality by following established QRH procedures.
- The event was recorded in the operator's Safety Management System (SMS) and included in the airline's Safety Performance Indicators (SPI).