What happened
On 15 June 2016, an EMBRAER ERJ 190-20 and0 LR, registration EC-LKX, operated by Air Europa Líneas Aéreas, experienced an aft-door open warning while in flight toward Adolfo Suárez Madrid-Barajas Airport. The flight crew followed established procedures and landed the aircraft without incident.
Following the disembarkation of passengers, the flight crew requested a maintenance inspection to address the door warning. Two maintenance technicians attended to the aircraft to inspect the left aft passenger door (L2) and its associated sensor. During this visual inspection, one technician fell from the aircraft, landing on a platform from a height of approximately 3 meters. The fall resulted in serious injuries to the technician.
The investigation
The investigation examined the circumstances surrounding the maintenance task and the safety measures in place. The technician involved was a highly experienced professional with a valid B1.1 license for the aircraft type. At the time of the accident, the technician was performing a visual inspection of the door sensor.
Investigators reviewed the use of the aircraft's safety strap, which is intended to serve as a visual warning that the door is open rather than a physical fall protection barrier. The investigation also looked into the technician's decision-making process, noting that he had interrupted another task to assist a colleague and avoid delaying the aircraft's next scheduled departure. The investigation confirmed that the technician was not using a work platform at the time of the fall.
Findings
- The maintenance task was being conducted in accordance with the manufacturer's manual for a visual inspection.
- The technician was holding onto a safety handle and the safety strap was in place.
- The safety strap is not a functional fall-prevention device and cannot replace a proper work platform.
- The accident was caused by the aviation maintenance technician's inattention while performing the maintenance task.
- The technician did not request a maintenance platform, likely due to the pressure to avoid flight delays.
Safety action
- REC 03/17: It is recommended that Air Europa take appropriate measures to prevent a recurrence of this type of accident.