Incident Details
On 31 March 2020, a pilot flying a Cessna 152 (registration SP-WWS) was performing training circuits at Grądy Airfield (EPGY). The flights commenced at 09:08 LMT (07:08 UTC) and continued after 08:20 UTC despite the activation of restricted airspace EPTS02D, which spanned from ground level to FL415. The Flight Information Service (FIS) was unable to establish radio contact with the pilot and telephonically informed the airfield manager. Around 08:29 UTC, the pilot was reached by telephone, after which flight operations at EPGY ceased.
Findings
The Polish State Commission for Aircraft Accident Investigation determined that the incident occurred due to a pilot error during pre-flight preparation. The pilot failed to consult the PAŻP AUP (Polish Air Navigation Services Agency's Airspace Use Plan) publication, which led to an in-flight violation of the active EPTS02D zone. A contributing circumstance was the use of new headphones with the volume control turned to the minimum setting, which likely hindered communication.
No safety recommendations were formulated by either the investigating entity or the Commission.