Incident Details
On 5 June 2010 at 12:36 UTC, near Muchowiec in the Krakow Terminal Control Area (TMA), a Boeing 757-200 (registration EI-IGC, flight AEI 419) operating from LEGE to EPKT experienced a dangerous approach with a glider of type SZD-51-1 Junior (registration unknown). The Boeing was descending to 4000 feet and reported a glider at the same altitude of 5500 feet, approximately 700 to 1000 meters to its left. The approach controller redirected AEI 419. The glider was not visible on the Boeing's TCAS. After landing, the crew confirmed the glider was performing a spiral at the same altitude and distance.
Investigation Findings
The Polish Air Navigation Services Agency (PAŻP) conducted a fact-finding investigation. The daily Airspace Use Plan (AUP) for 5 June 2010 did not include any reserved airspace for Gliwice or Muchowiec airports. Radar recordings from the PRANET system showed no other primary radar echoes near AEI 419, though this does not confirm their absence. Interviews revealed that the Muchowiec aerodrome operator reported glider flights beginning on 6 June, not 5 June, while the Gliwice operator confirmed flights on 5 June and noted that a dangerous approach event had occurred, as documented in pilot notes. Permission for flights in TRA26B that day was granted without informing air traffic control. Glider pilots SP-3430 and SP-3310 stated that they requested clearance for the Gliwice zone and the ATZ of Muchowiec. The flight manager allegedly gave permission using the word "correctly." Recorded telephone communications between the Gliwice flight manager and Krakow Approach did not contain any coordination regarding the opening of the Gliwice zone or the glider transit.
Causes and Contributing Factors
The investigation identified two causes of the incident: (1) The flight manager at Gliwice Airport (EPGL) authorized gliders to leave Class G airspace and enter Class C airspace without prior coordination and clearance from the appropriate air traffic control services. (2) The Boeing 757-200 and the SZD-51-1 Junior glider experienced a dangerous approach due to inadequate separation, which did not ensure safety. No errors in air traffic management were found.
Aftermath
The Polish State Commission for Aircraft Accident Investigation decided to close the case based on the PAŻP report, as the glider user did not submit a final report despite multiple requests. No safety recommendations were issued by the commission. However, the PAŻP recommended that the Gliwice Aeroclub conduct its own investigation to determine the circumstances and implement corrective actions.