What happened
On June 15, 2019, at approximately 18:40 local time, a Tecnam P2002-JF aircraft, registration SP-ADR, was conducting training flights in the left traffic pattern at Watorowo aerodrome (EPWT). Simultaneously, a Eurocopter EC135-FR helicopter, registration SP-HXV, operating as part of the HEMS2 medical service from Bydgoszcz, was tasked with a medical transport mission from Bydgoszcz to Grudziądz.
Upon entering the Watorowo control zone, the helicopter crew notified Watorowo Radio of their route and altitude, intending to fly over the aerodrome. The air traffic controller informed the helicopter crew of the current QNH, the active runway, and the presence of aircraft in the traffic pattern. While the controller granted the helicopter priority for its straight-in flight path, the crew was also instructed to maintain appropriate separation from other aircraft. The crew of the Tecnam P2002-JF heard this radio exchange.
At approximately 19:07, as the helicopter passed over the aerodrome, the pilot of the SP-HXV observed an aircraft marker on the ACAS3 display at the same altitude (1,300 ft AMSL) directly ahead. The helicopter crew subsequently spotted the Tecnam P2002-JF and performed an abrupt left turn to avoid a collision. The training aircraft was on its downwind leg, having recently reported its position. The crew of the Tecnam P2002-JF only noticed the helicopter during its evasive maneuver. The helicopter crew attempted to contact the aircraft, but no response was received.
The investigation
The PKBWL investigation examined radio communications between the controller and the helicopter crew, as well as the statements provided by the flight crews involved. The investigation focused on the interpretation of priority instructions and the awareness of traffic within the aerodrome vicinity.
Findings
- The primary cause of the incident was the failure of the training aircraft crew to yield right-of-way to the HEMS helicopter.
- There was a partial misunderstanding by the helicopter crew regarding the instructions provided by the air traffic controller.
- The training aircraft crew failed to properly analyze the helicopter's flight path.
- The helicopter's flight path through the aerodrome at traffic pattern altitude contributed to the close proximity of the two aircraft.