What happened
On October 25, 2020, at approximately 14:30, two aircraft were performing circuit patterns at Katowice Muchowiec Airport (EPKM) using runway 23. An instructor operating a Tecnam 2002 JF provided traffic updates to the pilot of a Socata Trynidad TB-20, registration SP-GAS, who was approaching the airport.
The pilot of the Socata Trynidad TB-20 informed the instructor of his intention to land on runway 05 instead of the active runway 23, citing the need to avoid sun glare during the approach. Although the instructor warned the pilot that this would involve landing on the opposite direction of the established traffic flow, the pilot confirmed his intention to proceed.
Minutes later, while the Tecnam 20-02 JF was completing its third turn, the instructor observed the Socata Trynidad TB-20 on a collision course at the same altitude to the right. To avoid a mid-air collision, the instructor performed an emergency climb. The Tecnam 2002 JF subsequently landed on runway 23, while the Socata Trynidad TB-20 landed on runway 05 after verifying that other aircraft had cleared the area.
The investigation
The PKBWL investigation focused on the decision-making process regarding runway selection and the pilot's situational awareness. The investigation examined the traffic patterns in use and the environmental conditions present at the time of the incident.
Findings
- The primary cause of the incident was the pilot error of the Socata Trynidad TB-20, specifically a failure to analyze airport traffic information and poor scanning of the airspace during circuit operations.
- Environmental factors contributed to the event, as sun glare and poor visibility caused by a temperature inversion at flight altitude hindered visual scanning.
Safety action
- Following the incident, the pilots involved discussed the situation.
- The details of the occurrence were disseminated to other pilots via the aero club's communication platform.