Cessna 208B SP-WAW Radio Communication Incident at Warsaw Babice

Incident Overview On 12 February 2021, a Cessna 208B with registration SP-WAW took off from runway 28 at Warsaw Babice Airport (EPBC) at 13:16. The aircraft was leading a formation of four aircraft, which also included three AT-3 aircraft, for a flight authorized by the President of Warsaw. ## Sequence of Events After takeoff, the formation flew a standard circuit. The lead aircraft maintained communication with the tower on 119.18 MHz (COM1). To avoid interfering with tower communications, the crews switched to 123.475 MHz for inter-formation communication. Only the lead aircraft had two radios and could monitor both frequencies; the other three aircraft had one radio each and maintained contact only with the lead aircraft. Around 13:40, the lead aircraft accidentally muted its COM1 receiver, resulting in a loss of radio contact between the formation and the tower. Due to the lack of communication, operations of other aircraft were suspended or separated. Contact with the group was re-established around 13:50, and the aircraft landed at 13:55. ## Investigation Findings The Polish State Commission for Investigation of Aviation Accidents (PBAWL) identified the following causes: 1. Lack of an agreed procedure for handling loss of communication during a non-standard flight. 2. Accidental muting of the radio in the lead aircraft. ## Safety Actions The incident was discussed in detail with the pilots involved and with officials of the Warsaw Aeroclub (ATO). Emphasis was placed on adhering to procedures, conducting thorough pre-flight briefings, and verifying communications to prevent similar incidents in the future. No additional safety recommendations were issued.