What happened
On August 20, 2024, at Warsaw Chopin Airport (EPWA), an incident occurred during ground handling services provided by LS Airport Services S.A. Following the completion of loading the forward baggage compartment, a ground worker positioned a conveyor belt parallel to the wing of an Embraer E170 STD, registration SP-LDG.
The worker left the conveyor belt running without engaging the handbrake or using wheel chocks. While the worker was removing a warning cone from the front of the aircraft, the conveyor belt began to move unexpectedly. Although the worker attempted to stop the vehicle, the belt continued moving and struck the aircraft's number 2 engine. The collision resulted in damage to the fan, the right reverse thrust cowl, a hydraulic line, and the GE CF34 engine inlet. The damage was severe enough to prevent the aircraft from performing its scheduled flight.
During the attempt to stop the moving equipment, the ground worker sustained light injuries requiring medical attention.
The investigation
The PKBWL examined the handling procedures and the equipment involved. An inspection of the conveyor belt confirmed that the braking system was functioning correctly. However, the equipment was withdrawn from service due to the damage sustained during the impact. The investigation also noted that the coordinator present at the aircraft did not observe the moment the collision occurred.
Findings
- The improper handling of the conveyor belt was the direct cause of the incident.
- Inadequate monitoring of the aircraft parking stand by the coordinator acted as a contributing factor.
- The investigation determined that the incident was not due to a lack of appropriate procedures or instructions within the operator's documentation.