Occurrence
On 2 August 2024, at Nowy Targ Airport (EPNT), simultaneous aircraft flights and parachute jumps were conducted using Runway 30. A glider was also being prepared for takeoff, positioned on the southern part of the runway threshold. A flight coordinator (KL) was designated, and all aircraft established communication with him.
Around 09:45 LMT, the pilot of the PAC-750XL (PAC) reported occupying Runway 30, taxiing from Taxiway A onto the runway, then proceeding along the northern side toward the takeoff point. At that time, the Cessna 152 (Cessna) began its takeoff roll from the Runway 30 threshold after receiving clearance from the KL.
When issuing takeoff clearance, the KL instructed the Cessna crew to be mindful of the PAC taxiing along the runway edge. The PAC pilot stated that he would move off the runway but ultimately did not do so. The KL observed both aircraft passing each other in opposite directions at a distance of approximately 30 meters.
Contributory Factors
The investigation identified several factors that led to the incident:
- The airport had only one taxiway to Runway 30, forcing aircraft to taxi along the runway for departure.
- The PAC taxied onto the runway without prior communication with the KL, who did not anticipate that the taxiing aircraft would not vacate the runway in time for another aircraft's takeoff.
- The practice of conducting takeoffs on the 80-meter-wide runway while another aircraft was moving along its edge.
- An inadequate assessment of collision risk in the event of a loss of directional control by the departing aircraft.
Actions Taken
The investigating body proposed the following preventive actions, which were accepted by the Commission:
- Suspension of flight operations on the day of the incident to discuss it with participants.
- Conducting training for flight coordinators, instructors, and representatives of airport operators regarding safety in the airport maneuvering area.
- Developing a design and feasibility study for additional taxiways directly to Runway 30 threshold.
- Clarifying the provisions in the airport's operating manual (INOP) concerning ground movement procedures in the maneuvering area.
No safety recommendations were issued.
Probable Cause
The incident resulted from a combination of factors: operation of a single taxiway, taxiing onto the runway without prior communication with the flight coordinator, practice of takeoffs while another aircraft was moving on the edge of the 80 m wide runway, and improper assessment of collision risk.