What happened
On May 26, 2017, an Embraer ERJ 190-200 operated by PLL LOT arrived at Warsaw Chopin Airport (EPWA) from Moscow Sheremetyevo (UUEE). During a routine walk-around inspection at Warsaw, the flight crew discovered abrasions on the components of the nose landing gear linkage.
The nature of the damage indicated that the aircraft had been struck by a baggage/tow tractor (specifically a non-towbar tug) during ground operations at the departure airport in Moscow.
The investigation
The crew filed an Air Safety Report (ASR), and the airline's Maintenance Control Center (MCC) and Coordination Center were notified. An aircraft mechanic was dispatched to inspect the damage. The mechanic determined that the aircraft could not be cleared for its next flight until the issue was addressed. Following the inspection, the damage was repaired in accordance with the manufacturer's documentation by smoothing the affected areas. Non-Destructive Testing (NDT) was performed, after which the aircraft was released back into service.
Findings
- The primary cause of the incident was the impact of a non-towbar tug against the nose landing gear.
- The collision occurred due to the improper connection of the tug by ground handling personnel at Moscow Sheremetyevo (UUEE).