Incident Overview
On July 22, 2024, a serious incident occurred involving an Air Tractor AT-802F Fire Boss, registration S5-BZR, operated by the Slovenian Administration for Civil Protection and Rescue (URSŽR). The event took place at Portorož Airport (LJPZ) at approximately 18:09 local time. The aircraft was engaged in aerial firefighting operations when it landed with its landing gear retracted.
Operational Context
Two AT-802 Fire Boss aircraft were activated at 16:24 to combat a wildfire near Ilirska Bistrica. After taking off from Ljubljana (LJLJ) and performing initial water drops, the aircraft encountered a band of thunderstorms while returning from a water drop in the sea. Due to deteriorating weather conditions and reduced visibility, the pilots aborted the firefighting mission. The S5-BZR pilot proceeded to land at Portorož Airport, while the second aircraft (S5-BZT) diverted back to Ljubljana.
Incident Details
Upon arrival at LJPZ, air traffic control advised the pilot of worsening weather and illuminated the runway lights for Runway 15. Heavy rain began in the airport area just before landing. The S5-BZR touched down with the landing gear retracted. The aircraft skidded along the runway surface for approximately 300 meters on the lower parts of its water tanks, coming to a stop about 10 meters before the intersection with Taxiway B.
Aftermath and Investigation
The pilot, a 43-year-old Spanish national with over 3,600 total flight hours, exited the aircraft unharmed. The investigation was conducted by the Slovenian Ministry of Infrastructure’s Service for Investigating Aviation, Maritime, and Railway Accidents and Incidents. The final report notes minimal damage to the aircraft and equipment. No passengers were on board.