What happened
On May 18, 2018, Krosno Airport (EPKR) was hosting the Polish Championships for Junior Free-Flying Models in the F1A, F1B, and F1P classes. Prior to the competition, the organizer and the air traffic controller agreed on flight rules and a launch location approximately 150–200 meters north of runway 11R to ensure models would fly with the wind and away from the paved runway.
During the pre-competition meeting, a competitor launched an F1A glider model for a training flight to adjust its control system without obtaining permission from the organizer or the air traffic controller. At approximately 09:07 LMT, the pilot of a Cessna 172 contacted the controller to request landing. The controller, aware of the ongoing competition but not the unauthorized model flight, cleared the aircraft for its approach.
As the aircraft approached the runway, the wind speed decreased, causing the glider model to change direction by 180 degrees and head toward the runway axis. The pilot of the Cessna 172 observed the model at an altitude of approximately 20 meters during the final phase of the approach. To avoid a collision, the pilot applied full power and performed an evasive maneuver, successfully landing the aircraft safely on the paved runway.
The investigation
The investigation examined the coordination between the competition organizer and the air traffic controller, the authorization process for model launches, and the presence of airport management during the pre-flight briefing. The investigation also reviewed the controller's decision to clear the aircraft for landing while competition activities were underway.
Findings
- The primary cause of the incident was the launch of the glider model without the authorization of the competition organizer or the air traffic controller.
- The lack of a designated official to supervise safety and order during the organizer's absence contributed to the incident.
- The airport manager was not present during the briefing with the competitors.
- The air traffic controller failed to ensure the runway was clear of all potential hazards before authorizing the aircraft to land.