What happened
On May 23, 2024, a Cessna 152F, registration SP-KIA, was performing maneuvers at the Kamień Śląski (EPKN) aerodrome. After departing from the landing strip and completing the second turn of the traffic pattern, the pilot altered the flight path. The aircraft flew across the traffic pattern zone at an altitude of approximately 800 ft AGL over the runway threshold, failing to maintain the required clearance above the circuit area.
Simultaneously, another aircraft, a Cessna 152 with registration SP-KCI, was on final approach for landing, piloted by a student pilot. An instructor on the ground, monitoring the student, used radio communications to contact the pilot of SP-KIA to inquire about their altitude while passing over the runway threshold. While the two aircraft passed each other at a safe distance, the encounter was conducted in an unprescribed manner.
The investigation
The investigation examined the flight paths of both aircraft, the radio communications between the ground instructor and the pilot of SP-KIA, and the adherence to standard traffic pattern procedures. The investigation also reviewed the corrective actions taken by the aircraft operator.
Findings
- The primary cause was the unauthorized change in flight trajectory by the pilot of SP-KIA, which resulted in a flight path crossing the runway threshold while another aircraft was on approach.
- The instructor on the ground failed to provide an unambiguous response or warning to the pilot of SP-KIA after observing the potential traffic conflict.
- The use of non-standard radio phraseology by the ground station contributed to the incident.
Safety action
The aircraft operator implemented several corrective measures, including:
- Conducting a debriefing with the pilot of SP-KIA regarding safe procedures for entering and exiting the traffic pattern.
- Requiring the pilot of SP-KIA to complete a flight with an instructor to verify proficiency and refresh knowledge of safe circuit procedures before conducting further solo flights.
- Reviewing official advisory circulars regarding traffic pattern safety with all flying personnel.
- Documenting the incident in the organization's safety bulletin.