What happened
On July 30, 2006, an Airbus A320, registration CS-TKK, operated by SATA International, was performing a scheduled passenger flight from Porto to Ponta Delgada. During the descent into Ponta Delgada, the crew observed deteriorating weather conditions, specifically a fog bank that reduced vertical visibility to zero. After an unsuccessful approach attempt, the commander decided to divert to the primary alternate airport, Lajes.
Upon diverting, the aircraft was instructed by Santa Maria air traffic control to enter a holding pattern at the "MIPRU" waypoint. The aircraft remained in this holding pattern while authorities coordinated with the military command at Lajes to secure landing permission. Because Lajes is a military airfield, civil aircraft require prior authorization (PPR) 15 days in advance, unless operating in an emergency.
As the aircraft's fuel levels approached critical limits, the pilot informed air traffic control of the impending fuel emergency. This declaration prompted an immediate authorization for approach and landing. The aircraft landed at Lajes at 00:30 UTC on July 31, with 880 kg of fuel remaining in the tanks.