What happened
On March 5, 2017, at 18:02 local time, a helicopter belonging to the Helicopter Transport Team was performing a repositioning flight from Katowice-Pyrzowice (EPKT) to Warsaw-Okęcie (EPWA) following the completion of a medical transport mission. After landing on the threshold of runway 15, the pilot received clearance from Warsaw Tower to taxi via taxiway Zulu.
Upon switching to ground communications, the pilot was instructed to follow a "Follow Me" vehicle to a designated parking area within the military section of the airport, in accordance with NOTAM 0479/17. While taxiing on taxiway Zulu 2 at an altitude of approximately 12 feet, the pilot observed a white Mulag airport service vehicle approaching the aircraft. The vehicle passed directly under the rear skid of the helicopter. The pilot immediately reported the encounter to the tower.
The investigation
The investigation was conducted by the internal company commission of the airport operator. The inquiry involved a review of airport monitoring footage and an analysis of aircraft movements on runways and taxiways. The investigation focused on the interaction between the helicopter and the ground vehicle at the intersection of taxiways Zulu and Viktor.
Findings
- The primary cause of the incident was operator error by the driver of the Mulag vehicle, which was operated by the airport service provider, Welcome Airport Services.
- The helicopter and the vehicle did not make physical contact, and the aircraft landed safely without injury to the crew.