Introduction
On 2 July 2020, an incident occurred at Zielona Góra/Babimost Airport (EPZG) involving an Embraer ERJ-170-200LR, registration SP-LIG, operated by Polskie Linie Lotnicze LOT S.A. The flight, designated LOT7004, was a HEAD status flight intended for Warsaw Chopin Airport (EPWA). There were 19 occupants on board; none sustained injuries.
Background
The flight was originally scheduled for departure at 21:30 local time but was delayed. The passengers arrived at the airport at 21:48. At 22:00, the aerodrome control tower (TWR) ceased operations, and the airspace in the vicinity of EPZG became uncontrolled class G airspace. The airport was closed, but all airport services remained on standby.
Events After Tower Closure
After the TWR closed, the aerodrome controller remained at the operational position and observed the situation. Shortly thereafter, the controller began coordinating the departure of LOT7004. This coordination involved communication with the flight crew, the Aerodrome Duty Officer (DOP), FIS Poznań, and APP Poznań. The controller used the radio and frequency of the TWR as well as telephone lines of the closed air traffic control unit.
At 22:01, the crew requested taxi clearance but did not receive it. The crew monitored the TWR frequency for information on the airport's readiness. After NOTAMs were published to reopen the airport, the aircraft was towed to Runway 06 by a Follow Me vehicle operated by the Ground Movement Coordinator. The controller provided wind direction and speed to the crew.
Departure
LOT7004 took off at 22:12 and began climbing toward the OBOLA waypoint.
Investigation
The Polish State Commission on Aircraft Accident Investigation (PKBWL) investigated the incident. The final report was issued on 16 March 2022. Safety recommendations were addressed to the Polish Air Navigation Services Agency.