What happened
On April 9, 2020, a Cessna 152, registration SP-KOK, was being used for PPL(A) flight training at the Kraków Aeroclub (EPKP) in Pobiednik. Following a series of training flights, the aircraft required refueling. To facilitate maneuvering the aircraft toward the fuel station, a tow bar (often referred to as a "wodzidło") was attached to the nose gear.
After refueling, the student pilot and instructor performed a pre-flight inspection and commenced taxiing via taxiway Bravo toward the holding point for runway 27. During the taxiing process, the propeller blades struck the attached tow bar. The impact caused the tow bar to detach from its mounting and remain on the taxiway. Following takeoff, an aeroclub employee noticed the damaged tow bar lying on the taxiway and notified the Training Manager, who instructed the crew to terminate the flight. A subsequent inspection of the aircraft revealed damage to the propeller blade tips.
The investigation
The PKBWL examined the final report provided by the aircraft operator. The investigation focused on the sequence of events during the taxiing phase and the condition of the aircraft's equipment. The investigation established that the aircraft began its taxiing maneuver with the tow bar still attached to the nose gear, leading to the contact between the propeller and the equipment.
Findings
- The primary cause of the incident was the improper execution of the pre-flight inspection by the crew, which failed to identify that the tow bar was still attached.
- The grey color of the tow bar served as a contributing factor, as it lacked sufficient contrast with the ground surface, making it harder to distinguish.
Safety action
- The operator committed to informing all flight personnel within the ATO about the incident.
- Instructors and flight crew will be reminded of the necessity of performing thorough pre-flight inspections in accordance with the Pilot's Operating Handbook.
- The operator intends to paint the surfaces of tow bars with a bright yellow gloss to ensure they contrast clearly with the surrounding environment.