Introduction
On 24 July 2023 at 09:47 UTC, a serious incident occurred in the vicinity of Portorož Airport (LJPZ), Slovenia, involving two aircraft on training flights. The aircraft were a Piper PA-38 (registration S5-DKP) operated by Aeroklub Portorož and a Zlin 143 (registration S5-DGH) operated by the Slovenian Armed Forces Flight School. The incident took place approximately 3 nautical miles from the airport.
Incident Details
The PA-38 had departed from runway 33 and was proceeding to a training area near Koper. The Zlin 143 was conducting an instrument approach using the RNP procedure for runway 15. The two aircraft came into dangerous proximity. Radar data showed they were at the same altitude. No injuries or aircraft damage were reported.
Chronology Based on ATC Communications
At 09:39:45, the PA-38 crew requested a training flight over the airport but was instructed by the air traffic controller to proceed to the Koper area due to expected arrivals. The crew acknowledged and taxied to runway 33. At 09:41:53, the Zlin 143 reported approaching the FOXJU waypoint for the RNP approach to runway 15. The controller cleared the approach and provided traffic information about another aircraft, DE-FCJ (a PA-28 on a VFR flight from Thiene to Portorož). At 09:44:07, the PA-38 was cleared for takeoff from runway 33 and climbed to 1000 feet towards Koper. At 09:45:02, the controller cleared another IFR flight (S5-DYG) to descend. The near miss occurred at 09:47.
Analysis
The investigation analyzed weather conditions, airspace classification, and pilot and controller actions. The airspace over Portorož includes controlled zones and terminal areas. The report noted that the two aircraft were on converging paths: the PA-38 was climbing after takeoff, while the Zlin 143 was descending on approach. The controller had provided traffic information, but separation was not maintained. The report does not assign a probable cause but includes safety recommendations.
Safety Recommendations
The Slovenian accident investigation authority issued safety recommendations to prevent future occurrences. The full recommendations are detailed in the official final report.