What happened
During a night operation at Sydney aerodrome, a pilot experienced significant disorientation while taxiing through a complex junction of taxiways. At the time, extensive aerodrome works were being conducted on golf taxiway, which had been ongoing since early 2016. Due to these works, several taxiways, including parts of twy G, twy C, and twy DOM2, were unavailable.
The pilot was cleared to use an uncommon taxi route that differed from their usual patterns. As the aircraft moved through the intersection of bravo 4, charlie, and charlie 2, the pilot lost track of their exact position. The pilot initially believed they had reached the intersection of bravo 4 and bravo, and later mistakenly thought they had reached golf when turning into bravo 6 to approach runway 16R.
The investigation
The investigation examined the environmental conditions and the pilot's navigation tools. It was found that the worksite was only partially established, meaning some taxiway lighting had not yet been covered, and various vehicle lights were active in the area. This, combined with the complex layout of the taxiway markings and lights, created a confusing visual environment at night.
Furthermore, while the operator had recently introduced electronic charts (e-charts) capable of providing real-time positioning via GPS, the pilot was relying on paper charts. The pilot had not received training on the new e-charts and preferred the traditional paper method.
Findings
- The pilot was unaware of the specific NOTAM regarding the taxiway closures until receiving clearance from ATC.
- The taxi route was unfamiliar to the pilot and involved a complex junction of multiple taxiways.
- The partially established nature of the worksite, including uncovered taxiway lighting and moving vehicle lights, contributed to visual confusion.
- The pilot's lack of familiarity with the new e-charts prevented the use of real-time GPS positioning which could have aided orientation.