Overview
LOT Polish Airlines Flight 16 was a scheduled transatlantic service operating from Newark to Warsaw Chopin Airport on 1 November 2011. The airliner, a Boeing 767, was unable to extend its landing gear and made a controlled landing with the gear retracted. All 231 passengers and crew survived; there were no fatalities.
Flight and aircraft
The flight was a routine scheduled service operated by LOT Polish Airlines. During final approach into Warsaw, the crew reported a problem with the landing gear extension. After troubleshooting and preparing the cabin for an emergency arrival, the flight crew carried out a gear-up touchdown on the runway with airport fire and rescue services standing by.
Sequence of the landing and response
A gear-up or "belly" landing is an emergency procedure in which the aircraft descends onto the runway without extended landing gear. In this case the crew kept the aircraft aligned and at appropriate speed, minimizing structural damage and risk to people on board. Emergency services deployed foam, fire trucks, and evacuation slides; passengers evacuated in an orderly fashion under crew direction.
Investigation and probable cause
Polish safety authorities opened an investigation into the mechanical failure. Findings attributed the incident to a malfunction in the landing gear extension system that prevented normal deployment, though investigations of technical incidents often identify multiple contributing factors such as system components, maintenance records, and procedural checks. The investigation aimed to recommend corrective actions to prevent recurrence.
Aftermath and significance
The incident drew international attention for the successful outcome and for the professionalism of the flight crew and emergency responders. It is commonly cited in aviation safety discussions as an example of effective crew resource management, emergency preparedness, and airport rescue coordination. The commander, widely praised for his handling of the event, underscored the role of training in averting casualties.
Notable facts
- Date: 1 November 2011.
- Aircraft type: Boeing 767.
- Route: Newark – Warsaw Chopin Airport.
- Operator: LOT Polish Airlines.
- Outcome: successful gear-up landing; no fatalities.
As a case study, Flight 16 is used to examine emergency decision-making, the importance of clear communication between cockpit and cabin crews, and the value of coordinated airport emergency services. It remains a frequently cited example of a non-fatal hull loss scenario managed without loss of life.