Incident Overview
On 25 October 2019, a Saab 340 aircraft, registration SP-KPV, was operating a flight from Kyiv (UKKK) to Warsaw Chopin Airport (EPWA). Upon arrival, weather conditions deteriorated below CAT II landing minima, and the crew entered a holding pattern over the LIMVI waypoint. After approximately 40 minutes, the Automatic Terminal Information Service (ATIS) indicated an improvement, prompting the crew to commence the LIMVI4U Standard Terminal Arrival Route (STAR) for Runway 33.
Approach and Decision
During the descent, the DIRECTOR controller informed the crew that Runway 33's Runway Visual Range (RVR) was 300 meters at the touchdown zone, 250 meters at the midpoint, and 280 meters at the rollout. After switching to the Tower (TWR) frequency, the crew received an updated RVR of 250 meters at the touchdown zone, 275 meters at the midpoint, and 250 meters at the rollout. The crew continued the approach. At an altitude of 190 feet above ground level, the crew reported seeing six edge lights of Runway 33, which would correspond to a visibility of approximately 360 meters.
Regulatory Compliance
According to applicable aviation regulations, specifically CAT.OP.MPA.305, the crew was required to discontinue the approach if the RVR fell below the required minimum of 300 meters when below 1,000 feet AGL. In this case, the reported RVR values were below that threshold, yet the crew proceeded to land without further incident. The aircraft touched down safely with no consequences.
Investigation Findings
The Polish State Commission on Aircraft Accident Investigation (PKBWL) determined that the probable cause of the incident was the crew's decision to continue the approach below 1,000 feet AGL despite the reported RVR being less than the required minimum of 300 meters. No contributing circumstances were identified, and no preventive or safety recommendations were issued.