What happened
On May 4, 2022, a student pilot was conducting a solo cross-country training flight departing from Przylep Aerodrome (EPZP) in a Tecnam P2008-JC, registration SP-KAS. The flight commenced at 17:00 local time. During the return phase, the student pilot reported being on the left traffic pattern for runway 06 and was instructed by the flight controller to proceed to the straight-in approach.
Simultaneously, a paramotor was operating in the area of the right traffic pattern for runway 06. At approximately 18:06, as the student pilot completed the fourth turn and reported the straight-in approach, the paramotor moved dynamically toward the threshold of runway 0 and intersected the flight path of the Tecnam P2008-JC. Recognizing the immediate danger, the flight controller instructed the student pilot to execute a go-around. The student pilot complied with the instruction and landed safely without further incident at approximately 18:11.
The investigation
The PKBWL investigation focused on the movements of both aircraft and the communication environment at the aerodrome. The investigation established that the paramotor pilot was operating without radio communication. Furthermore, the investigation examined the environmental conditions, noting that the position of the sun significantly impacted visibility for the paramotor pilot when looking toward the approaching aircraft.
Findings
- The primary cause of the incident was the paramotor pilot's failure to properly observe the airspace in the vicinity of the aerodrome.
- The lack of two-way radio communication with the paramotor pilot prevented coordination between the aircraft.
- The sun's position caused degraded visibility for the paramotor pilot in the direction of the approaching Tecnam P2008-JC.
Safety action
Following the incident, several preventive measures were implemented by the aerodrome operator, Aeroklub Ziemi Lubuskiej (AZL):
- The paramotor pilot was interviewed regarding the event.
- The aerodrome operator mandated that all pilots operating within the aerodrome traffic zone (ATZ) must possess the capability for two-way radio communication and hold the necessary radio operator authorizations.
- Additional theoretical training was provided to the paragliding section of the club, focusing on ATZ airspace usage, traffic pattern construction, and EPZP operational procedures.
- Coordination between the flight controller and all aerodrome users was reviewed.