Incident Overview
A LOT Polish Airlines Embraer ERJ 190-200 (operated by PLL LOT S.A.) experienced a ground incident on 26 May 2017. The damage was discovered during a pre-flight check at Warsaw Chopin Airport (EPWA) following a flight from Moscow Sheremetyevo Airport (UUEE). The crew noted abrasions on the nose landing gear scissor system components, indicating a collision with a towbarless tug. The aircraft was subsequently grounded by a mechanic and not cleared for further flight.
Damage and Repair
Inspection revealed the nose landing gear scissor system had sustained scuffing damage consistent with contact from handling equipment. The damage was repaired in accordance with the aircraft manufacturer's documentation, by smoothing the scratches. Non-destructive testing (NDT) checks were performed, and the aircraft was returned to service.
Probable Cause
The Polish State Commission on Aircraft Accident Investigation (PKBWL) stated that the most probable cause of the incident was a collision of the towbarless tug with the nose landing gear due to incorrect connection by ground handling personnel at UUEE.
Corrective Actions Taken
The operator, PLL LOT S.A., recorded the event in its Safety Management System (SMS) database, classified it according to company criteria, and included it in monitored safety performance indicators as described in the Safety Management Manual.