What happened
On August 8, 2014, a Cessna 152 was operating a flight under Visual Flight Rules (VFR) between Modlin Airport (EPMO) and Modlin Airport (EPMO). During the flight, the pilot entered the Modlin Control Zone (CTR) airspace without establishing radio communication with the relevant authorities.
Upon noticing the lack of contact, personnel from Warsaw Approach (APP) and Olsztyn Flight Information Service (FIS) notified the Modlin Tower (TWR) controller of a probable loss of communication. Because the aircraft was unable to acknowledge verbal instructions, the controller was forced to issue instructions "blindly." The pilot eventually received landing clearance via visual light signals and successfully completed the landing at the aerodrome without further incident.
The investigation
The investigation, conducted by the aircraft operator, focused on the circumstances surrounding the loss of radio contact and the pilot's entry into the controlled airspace. The inquiry examined the sequence of communications between the various air traffic service units and the methods used to guide the aircraft to a safe landing.
Findings
- The primary cause of the incident was the inadequate preparation of the pilot-in-command.
- The investigation established that the pilot demonstrated a partial lack of familiarity with the Aircraft Flight Manual (AFM).