Unauthorized Entry into TRA-18 Airspace by Ultralight Aircraft

Casualties unknown • EPSJ, PL

A pilot operating a CTSW ultralight aircraft entered a restricted airspace zone without authorization and subsequently departed the area without radio contact.

What happened

On September 13, 2014, at approximately 10:00 local time, an ultralight CTSW aircraft, registered D-MKAW, entered the active TRA-1HD airspace. The pilot contacted the Sobienie Radio frequency (135.175 MHz) while on the 09 approach, requesting landing permission. The organizers of a Historical Aircraft Rally currently in progress at Sobienie airfield informed the pilot that the aircraft was not on the arrival list and denied landing permission.

The pilot stated that the aircraft lacked sufficient fuel to depart. Consequently, the rally organizers permitted an emergency landing. Upon meeting the aircraft on the ground, the crew informed organizers that the contact was not an emergency landing request but rather a notification of low fuel. The pilot claimed they were unaware of the TRA-18 airspace restrictions.

Following an inspection of the pilot's documentation, it was discovered that the pilot did not hold a valid rating for single-engine piston land (SEP(L)) aircraft under their PPL(A) license, nor did they meet the requirements of their Class 2 medical certificate. Despite being informed by rally management that they would not be permitted to depart, the pilot taxied to the runway at 12:00 and took off without establishing radio contact. The aircraft subsequently exited the TRA-18 zone without communicating with any controllers.

Probable cause

The pilot endangered aviation safety by operating an aircraft without a valid SEP(L) rating and failing to meet medical certification requirements, while also operating within restricted airspace without authorization or radio communication.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2014-09-13 CTSW accident near EPSJ, PL?

A pilot operating a CTSW ultralight aircraft entered a restricted airspace zone without authorization and subsequently departed the area without radio contact.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2014-09-13 involved a CTSW, registration D-MKAW, at EPSJ, PL.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot endangered aviation safety by operating an aircraft without a valid SEP(L) rating and failing to meet medical certification requirements, while also operating within restricted airspace without authorization or radio communication.

Investigation report by the Polish State Commission on Aircraft Accidents Investigation (PKBWL). Original record: https://pkbwl.gov.pl/raporty/2014-1665/. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the Panstwowa Komisja Badania Wypadkow Lotniczych (PKBWL), Poland.

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