Incident Overview
On 23 July 2016, an incident occurred in the Bydgoszcz TMA (EPBY) involving a PZL-Mielec AN-2 (registration SP-AOC) operated by Aeroklub Bydgoski and an Eurocopter EC 136 P2+ helicopter operated by SP ZOZ LPR. The helicopter was approaching for landing using the RNAV 08 procedure, while the AN-2 was climbing to an altitude of 3000 meters to conduct a parachute drop.
Sequence of Events
The AN-2 pilot received information from TWR EPBY that the drop would be possible only after the helicopter had landed. The pilot subsequently reported being "on final for the drop" and was informed by TWR that the helicopter's landing was expected in approximately two minutes. No clearance for the drop was given. According to Aeroklub Bydgoski, after about two minutes, the parachutists exited the aircraft and landed on the airport.
Analysis and Findings
The analysis conducted by Aeroklub Bydgoski indicated that the incident occurred due to a lack of clear communication among the air traffic control units (KRL, ADC), the helicopter (RAT2), and the AN-2 (SP-AOC). The parachutists left the aircraft without authorization from the appropriate air traffic authority, which should not have happened.
Cause
The cause of the incident was the execution of a parachute drop operation in controlled airspace without obtaining clearance from the appropriate air traffic authority.
Preventive Actions
Following the incident, the investigating entity conducted additional training for parachute instructors focusing on the organization of jumps in EPBY airspace. It was also decided that at every pre-flight briefing, procedures regarding the authorization or prohibition of parachute drops would be reiterated.
Safety Recommendations
The investigation commission did not issue any safety recommendations.