What happened
On July 21, 2015, an Airbus A3ert0 was operating a scheduled flight from EGGW to EPPO. While navigating near the OBOLA waypoint, the pilot notified air traffic control of the need to alter the flight path toward the northeast to avoid encountering adverse meteorological conditions. After receiving authorization, the crew proceeded with the intended course change.
As the aircraft approached the active EPD 21 zone, the air traffic controller queried the crew regarding their ability to maintain a heading of 085 degrees to bypass the active area. The pilot responded that such a course was not possible due to the prevailing weather conditions and requested a further left turn. After passing the area of inclement weather, the aircraft subsequently flew through a portion of the active EPD 21 zone while on a heading of 115 degrees.
The investigation
The investigation focused on the sequence of maneuvers performed by the crew and the coordination between the flight crew and air traffic services. The inquiry examined the communication regarding the requested course changes and the management of the active airspace zone in relation to the weather avoidance maneuvers.