A320 lands without ATC clearance after frequency error (SP-HAG)

Incident Overview On 22 August 2016, an Airbus A320 experienced an incident in the TMA EPKK. The aircraft was operated by a line pilot. The event was classified as an incident, and no fatalities, serious injuries, or minor injuries were reported. ## Sequence of Events During the final approach to landing, the crew changed frequency from the approach control unit to the tower. The crew set 119.250 MHz instead of the correct 129.250 MHz, which prevented them from establishing communication with the tower while continuing the approach. The crew did not re-call the tower or verify the frequency. Despite not receiving a landing clearance, the crew did not perform the missed approach procedure and landed. Throughout the event, the crew monitored the emergency frequency 121.500 MHz and did not receive any light signals from the tower. After landing, the crew realized the frequency error, corrected it, and established communication with the tower. ## Investigation Findings The cause of the incident was a violation of air traffic regulations by landing without obtaining clearance from air traffic control. Contributing factors included the incorrect tower frequency setting and the failure to perform the missed approach procedure. ## Safety Actions The investigating body conducted a discussion with the pilot-in-command regarding the incident and its causes. Instructors and examiners were instructed to pay attention to the correct setting of radio frequencies by pilots. An additional simulator training element related to loss of contact with ATC units was introduced. The commission did not issue safety recommendations.