Summary
On July 7, 2015, an Airbus A320 operated by an unspecified airline was involved in a communication incident at Warsaw Chopin Airport (EPWA). The aircraft was taxiing for departure from runway 33 when the crew encountered temporary blockage of onboard radios, preventing them from maintaining contact with air traffic control.
Sequence of Events
The crew received taxi instructions from Ground Control on frequency 121.900 MHz. Subsequently, Ground Control instructed them to switch to Tower frequency 118.300 MHz. In accordance with the operator's procedures, the crew set the new frequency on the radio management panel 1 (RMP1) while retaining the previous frequency on RMP2. After contacting Tower on 118.300 MHz, they received clearance to line up and wait on runway 33. Shortly after occupying the runway, they observed the runway lights flashing and attempted to re-establish radio communication with Tower. After several unsuccessful attempts, they noticed another aircraft performing a go-around procedure.
Findings and Probable Cause
The operator reported that the probable cause of the incident was a temporary blocking of the onboard radio stations, which led to an inability to maintain current radio communication with air traffic control. This caused a delay in executing ATC instructions. A subsequent inspection of the aircraft's radios revealed no abnormalities. The operator continues to monitor the performance of the onboard radios.
Safety Actions
A routine check of the onboard radio systems was conducted immediately after the incident, which did not find any irregularities. The operator stated that it continuously monitors the functioning of the radios installed on this aircraft to address potential future occurrences. The Polish State Commission on Aircraft Accident Investigation (PKBWL) did not issue any safety recommendations following the investigation.