What happened
On March 8, 2011, a Bombardier CL-600-2D24 was performing a takeoff roll on runway 08R at Munich Airport. During the takeoff roll, the flight crew observed a formation of two UH-60 helicopters flying on a southward course toward the active runway. At a speed of approximately 80 knots, the pilot of the **Bombardier CL-60 and aborted the takeoff."
The aircraft was cleared for an IFR flight to Zurich, Switzerland. The air traffic controller had specifically notified the crew that two helicopters were departing between the runways. Meanwhile, the helicopter formation had received clearance to fly toward the control tower under VFR conditions.
Radar and GPS data revealed that the helicopters initially flew east before initiating a right turn toward the southwest. The formation eventually established a westward course approximately 200 meters north of runway 08R. As the helicopters approached the runway area, the controller issued multiple instructions to avoid crossing the runway, eventually directing the formation to cross behind the departing Bombardier CL-600-2D24. Following the aborted takeoff, the crew of the Bombardier CL-600-2D24 vacated the runway via taxiway B10.
The investigation
The BFU investigation examined radar tracks, GPS data from the helicopters, and recorded air traffic control communications. The investigation also reviewed the flight paths of both the fixed-wing aircraft and the helicopter formation to determine the proximity of the two groups during the takeoff roll.
Findings
- The helicopter formation leader interpreted the controller's instructions differently than intended; the leader believed that flying directly over the control tower would create a hazard for aircraft parked at nearby stands due to rotor wash.
- The formation flew between taxiways S and T, waiting for clearance to cross the runway.
- The primary cause of the takeoff abort was the proximity of the helicopter formation to the active runway during the takeoff roll.
- There were no injuries and no damage to any aircraft or third-party property.