What happened
On October 24, 2021, two Cessna 152 aircraft were operating in the right-hand traffic pattern for runway 36R at Depułtycze Królewskie (EPCD) airport. The first aircraft, SP-DCM, was occupied by an instructor and a student pilot, while the second aircraft, SP-KCD, was operated by a student pilot. A third aircraft, an AT-3, was also entering the pattern.
During the downwind leg, the crew of SP-Dim extended their flight path and delayed their third turn. Meanwhile, the student pilot in SP-KCD executed the third turn at the standard position. The flight controller instructed the crews that SP-DCM was cleared to land first, followed by the incoming AT-3. The student pilot in SP-KCD attempted to ask if an orbit was required for the fourth turn, but the question went unanswered due to communication difficulties.
As SP-DCM reported being on final approach, the student in SP-KCD reported their position in the fourth turn. The instructor in SP-DCM observed SP-KCD descending approximately 20 meters above and slightly to the right of their position. To maintain separation, the instructor took control, informed the controller of the observation, and executed a go-around, climbing away safely. The student in SP-KCD noticed the aircraft below them during the maneuver but continued the approach to a landing.
The investigation
The investigation established that the flight controller experienced significant difficulties communicating with the aircraft. Following the incident, it was discovered that the stationary radio station at the aerodrome was damaged, resulting in intermittent and unintelligible transmissions. The controller had been forced to use a portable radio to maintain contact.
Findings
- Loss of visual contact with the preceding aircraft near the third turn of the circuit.
- Improper analysis of the traffic flow within the airport vicinity.
- The student pilot in SP-KCD performed the third turn at a different location than the preceding aircraft.
- Malfunctioning stationary radio equipment at the aerodrome, which hindered the delivery of critical traffic information.