Incident Overview
On July 24, 2020, a serious aviation incident occurred at Warsaw-Babice Airport (EPBC) involving two light aircraft: a Tecnam P2008-JC with registration SP-LFA and a Cessna 172 with registration SP-OTB. The event took place during a period of high traffic density in the airport's traffic pattern, between 06:20 and 18:22 local time.
Sequence of Events
The Tecnam crew was on approach from the west to join the right-hand traffic pattern for Runway 28L. Simultaneously, the Cessna took off from Runway 28L. According to standard procedures outlined in the AIP VFR Polska, aircraft were required to turn right after passing Władysław Sikorski Street and fly on the western side of this street, avoiding fuel tanks located near Mościska.
However, the Cessna shortened its first turn in the pattern by executing it earlier than prescribed. This deviation reduced the separation distance between the two aircraft. At approximately 17:43 local time, the Cessna overtook the Tecnam while flying inside the designated traffic route. Recognizing a dangerous proximity, the Tecnam crew executed an evasive maneuver, turning left by approximately 40 degrees to avoid a collision.
Contributing Factors and Investigation Findings
The investigation identified several key factors contributing to the incident: 1. Early Turn Execution: The Cessna performed its first turn in the traffic pattern earlier than required, cutting the corner and reducing separation. 2. High Traffic Density: There was a significant volume of aircraft in the vicinity, making it difficult to maintain adequate separation between all parties.
The Tecnam crew did not report the incident immediately to air traffic control (BABICE Radio on 122.305 MHz) due to heavy radio traffic, fearing it would cause unnecessary confusion. Instead, they filed a mandatory report after landing. Meteorological data from Warsaw-Modlin (EPWA), located 12 km southeast of EPBC, indicated Visual Meteorological Conditions (VMC) at the time.
Safety Measures and Recommendations
The Polish State Commission for Investigation of Aviation Accidents (PKBWL) concluded that the information provided was sufficient to close the investigation. No specific safety recommendations were formulated in this decision. However, it was noted that in 2022, following a previous recommendation (PKBWL nr 2021/0483/1), the airport operator restricted traffic in the pattern at EPBC to a maximum of six aircraft to enhance safety.