What happened
On September 8, 2024, a Boeing 737-8 MAX, registration SP-LVA, operated by PLL LOT SA, completed a flight from Madrid (LEMD) to Warsaw Chopin Airport (EPWA). After the aircraft had landed and come to a stop at its parking stand, ground personnel notified the flight crew that the refueling station access door was open.
Upon inspection of the refueling panel, the crew identified mechanical damage, specifically a bent hold-open tube assembly.
The investigation
The investigation focused on determining why the refueling access door was not properly secured prior to departure. The inquiry established that the door had not been fully closed at the departure airport. The investigation also examined the sequence of events following the aircraft's arrival at the destination and the subsequent discovery of the damage.
Findings
- The improper closure of the refueling panel at the departure airport was the primary cause. The aerodynamic forces acting on the aircraft during the landing phase caused the unsecured door to open.
- A contributing factor was the performance of the aircraft's pre-flight inspection before the completion of refueling operations.
Safety action
Following the incident, a safety reminder was distributed to fuel service personnel, emphasizing the necessity of thoroughly verifying that all panels are securely closed before concluding refueling operations.