What happened
On October 9, 2021, at the EPPT airfield, various aviation activities including parachute jumps, powered flight, and glider operations were underway, with all operations utilizing runway 03. Following a parachute deployment, a Skyvan SC-7 (registration SP-HIP) was descending toward the runway, completing its third right-hand pattern turn. Simultaneously, a WT-9 Dynamic (registration SP-SLKK) entered the aerodrome traffic zone (ATZ) from the south.
Upon entering the ATZ, the pilot of the WT-9 Dynamic reported their position via radio. The air traffic controller provided landing conditions, and the pilot of the WT-9 Dynamic indicated they were on the "long straight" to runway 03. As the aircraft was approximately 5 km from the airfield, the pilot provided a further position report. Due to the presence of a glider and the approaching Skyvan SC-7 within the traffic pattern, the controller assigned the WT-9 Dynamic the third landing sequence.
As the Skyvan SC-7 reached the third right-hand turn at an altitude of approximately 2500–2800 ft QNH, the pilot reported their position and received clearance for approach. The pilot of the Skyvan SC-7 noted observing the WT-9 Dynamic performing a turn toward the final approach. During this maneuver, the two aircraft passed each other at a very close distance, with the Skyvan SC-7 flying over the WT-9 Dynamic. Both aircraft subsequently landed safely at the airfield.
The investigation
The PKBWL examined the radio communications, the sequence of the traffic pattern maneuvers, and the positioning of both aircraft within the ATZ to determine the factors that led to the close proximity of the two aircraft.