Incident Overview
On 5 March 2017 at 18:02 local time, a helicopter crew from the Helicopter Transport Team was completing a repositioning flight from Katowice-Pyrzowice Airport (EPKT) to Warsaw-Okęcie Airport (EPWA) after a medical transport mission. Upon landing on Runway 15, the pilot received clearance from the tower controller to taxi via Taxiway Z (Zulu) in a hover taxi (since the helicopter is skid-equipped). After switching to ground control, the pilot was instructed to follow a "Follow Me" vehicle to the landing and parking area in the military section of the airport, as per NOTAM 0479/17.
Sequence of Events
While taxiing over Taxiway Z2 (Zulu 2) at an altitude of approximately 12 feet, the pilot noticed a white Mulag-type airport vehicle approaching from the direction of the intersection of Taxiways Z and V (Zulu-Victor). The vehicle passed directly beneath the helicopter, specifically under the rear attachment point of the skids. No collision occurred. The pilot immediately informed Okęcie Ground of the situation via radio. The helicopter subsequently landed safely, and the pilot filed an appropriate report regarding the event.
Cause of the Incident
The event was caused by an error of the operator of a Mulag-type vehicle belonging to the airport handling company Welcome Airport Services.
Preventive Actions
The incident was discussed during a meeting of the airport's Apron Safety Team, using documentation from airport surveillance footage. Particular attention was given to the taxiing of aircraft in hover taxi over runways and taxiways.
Safety Recommendations
No safety recommendations were issued by the investigation commission.
Commission Comment
No comment was provided.