B737-800
Flight Crew Air Transport Pilot (ATP); Flight Crew Instrument; Flight Crew Multiengine
Flight Crew Total 6
Aircraft Equipment Problem Less Severe
Aircraft Aircraft Damaged; General Maintenance Action
Aircraft
During the post-flight; the ground crew found the large access panel behind the right main landing gear hanging open. Inspection revealed that although the panel and hinges were undamaged; the composite fairing aft of the panel had several small holes where the attached support rod had made minor impact with the surface.The aircraft was taken out of service by [Company] Maintenance.The cause is unknown. However; due to the pristine condition of the panel; I believe it was unlikely that it opened until after landing. In order to cause the damage that it did; the prop rod had to bounce off the ground at significant speed; however.This aircraft was brand new. This panel only accesses the standby hydraulic pump. It is very unlikely that it needed to be opened since aircraft delivery. Is it possible that the 8 large adjustable latches were badly rigged from the factory; and the flex of the fuselage on landing allowed it to fall open?
Normal flight and landing. During post flight of leg one of a turn; ground crew found access panel behind right main landing gear was open. Inspection revealed panel and hinges undamaged; but composite fairing behind panel had several small holes where support arm had apparently had minor contact with surface. Aircraft taken out of service by [Station] Maintenance.Cause is unknown. Panel closed and latched on preflight; and one latch closed even with door open.
B737 flight crew reported that after landing; a major access panel beneath the aircraft was found open. Damage found to composite fairing aft of access panel.