What happened
On August 1, 2015, a G8 Airvan was conducting skydiving operations within the TRA 26A airspace, which is reserved up to an altitude of 6,500ft, near EPGL airport. During one of the flight sequences, the pilot climbed to FL 80, resulting in an unauthorized entry into the Kraków TMA controlled airspace. The aircraft entered this controlled zone without obtaining the necessary coordination or permission from the relevant air traffic control services.
The investigation
The investigation established that the aircraft's ascent into the controlled airspace occurred without the required prior authorization from air traffic control. The pilot reported that the entry into the Kraków TMA was caused by difficulties in establishing radio communication with EPKK approach control. These communication delays were attributed to the pilot's need to perform several necessary flight-related tasks and procedures during the flight.
Findings
- The primary cause of the incident was the failure to obtain clearance from air traffic services before entering controlled airspace.
- The pilot encountered difficulties establishing initial radio contact with EPKK approach control.
- The pilot was preoccupied with various operational tasks required for the flight, which contributed to the communication delay.