Incident Overview
On 18 September 2016, an Airbus A320 was taxiing for departure at Warsaw Chopin Airport. During the taxi, the left wingtip of the A320 struck a parked Saab 340, causing damage to the Saab's vertical stabilizer. No injuries were reported among the occupants of either aircraft.
Findings
The preliminary investigation analyzed radio communications, CCTV footage, and airport markings. Key findings include:
- Airport horizontal and vertical markings were correct.
- Weather conditions did not contribute to the event.
- The tower controller issued proper taxi instructions via correct taxiways, and the A320 crew correctly read back the clearance.
- However, the A320 crew later contacted the tower again, repeating a clearance intended for another aircraft. The tower reiterated the correct clearance for the A320.
- Despite confirming the correct taxi route to Runway 15, the A320 crew turned onto taxiway "W" instead of the assigned "U." Taxiway "W" was too narrow for the A320's wingspan.
- Continuing on taxiway "W," the A320's left wingtip contacted the correctly parked Saab 340, damaging its vertical stabilizer.
The preliminary analysis concluded that the collision resulted from the A320 crew's erroneous decision to taxi on the wrong taxiway.
Investigation Status
The Polish State Commission for Aircraft Accident Investigation (PKBWL) stated that the full cause of the wrong taxiway decision cannot be determined without analyzing the A320's flight data recorder (FDR), cockpit voice recorder (CVR), pilot statements, operational records, and crew duty time documentation. These materials are held by Russian authorities. Because the Saab 340 was properly parked, the controller's actions were correct, and the airport markings were standard, the commission determined that the event was due to the A320 crew's improper actions. Consequently, the investigation was transferred to Russian authorities under PKBWL supervision. The event was reclassified from a serious incident to an incident due to the absence of physical injuries.
Outcome
As of the preliminary report, the Russian side had confirmed the initiation of an investigation. The PKBWL stated it would conclude its own investigation and publish a final report once the Russian authorities provide the requested information. No safety recommendations were issued at this preliminary stage.