What happened
On 16 April 2000, a Cessertna Citation 550, registration OE-GLZ, was conducting a VOR approach to Runway 07 at Belfast (Aldergrove) Airport. The flight had originated from Dublin Airport. During the descent, the air traffic controller observed via the Air Traffic Monitor that the aircraft was positioned south of the standard approach path and at an altitude lower than expected for its distance from the airfield.
While the crew had been cleared to land, the controller noted that the aircraft's position was irregular. When queried regarding the visibility of the approach lights, the crew reported they had the runway in sight but could not see the lights. The controller alerted the crew to the presence of a nearby airfield, Langford Lodge, located three miles west of Aldergrove, and instructed them to go-around and climb to 3,000 feet. After the crew identified approach lights to their left, they were cleared for a visual approach to Aldergrove, at which point they confirmed their clearance and apologised to the controller.
The investigation
The investigation involved a review of the aircraft accident report submitted by the pilot and analysis of the air traffic control recordings from frequency 118.3 MHz. The inquiry established that the aircraft had drifted toward Langford Lodge, an unlicensed aerodrome situated 3 nm southwest of Aldergrove. The investigation noted that Langford Lodge features intersecting runways and that pilots have previously mistaken it for Aldergrove during approaches to Runway 07.
Findings
- The crew of OE-GLZ was on an approach path that deviated from the standard track for Aldergrove.
- The controller's vigilant monitoring of the Air Traffic Monitor and timely intervention prevented the aircraft from landing at the wrong airfield.
- The ATIS in effect at the time specifically warned pilots of the proximity of Langford Lodge and noted that the Aldergrove approach lights would be illuminated.
- There were no injuries and no damage to the aircraft.