Casualties unknown

2015-07-21: Airbus A320 — Strefa EPD21, PL

Strefa EPD21, PL

On July 21, 2015, an Airbus A320 was involved in an aviation accident near Strefa EPD21, PL. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Improper actions of air traffic control services regarding possible actions to avoid the active zone EPD 21. This summary draws on records from the Polish State Commission on Aircraft Accidents Investigation (PKBWL); 8 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe Polish State Commission on Aircraft Accidents Investigation (PKBWL)Primary reportUpdated 1785092869Data APIEditorial standards
Airbus A320
Photo: Tosaka / CC BY 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

An Airbus A320 flight from Luton to Poznań deviated due to weather and entered the active EPD 21 zone after ATC coordination. Investigators cited improper ATC actions as the cause.

Incident Overview

On 21 July 2015, an Airbus A320 operated a scheduled flight from London Luton Airport (EGGW) to Poznań-Ławica Airport (EPPO). While near the OBOLA waypoint, the pilot requested a northeast heading to avoid an area of adverse meteorological conditions. After receiving clearance, the aircraft continued on the intended course.

ATC Interaction

As the aircraft approached the active restricted zone EPD 21, the air traffic controller inquired whether the crew could fly a heading of 085 degrees to bypass the zone. The pilot, citing the adverse weather area, indicated that such a heading was not feasible and instead requested a further left turn.

Zone Incursion

After passing the region of poor weather, the pilot assumed a heading of 115 degrees, which resulted in the aircraft briefly entering a portion of the active EPD 21 zone.

Investigation Findings

The investigation, conducted by the State Commission on Aircraft Accident Investigation (PKBWL), determined the cause to be improper actions by air traffic control services regarding the options available to avoid the active EPD 21 zone. No safety recommendations were issued following the investigation.

Final Note

The report did not specify the aircraft registration, engine type, time of day, or any injuries. The investigation concluded on 7 October 2015.

Probable cause

Improper actions of air traffic control services regarding possible actions to avoid the active zone EPD 21.

Investigation report by the Polish State Commission on Aircraft Accidents Investigation (PKBWL). Original record: https://pkbwl.gov.pl/raporty/2015-1442/. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the Panstwowa Komisja Badania Wypadkow Lotniczych (PKBWL), Poland.