Two training aircraft involved in runway incursion at Bolzano Airport

Casualties unknown • Aeroporto di Bolzano, IT

A Cessna 172 and a Piper 28-A occupied the same runway simultaneously during a training flight return, following a change in landing intentions.

What happened

On December 2, 2004, at approximately 09:45 UTC, two training aircraft operated by the Aero Club di Bolzano were returning to Bolzano Airport (LIPB) after encountering adverse weather while en route to Belluno. The first aircraft, a Piper 28-A with registration D-EZEN, was operated by a student pilot, while the second, a Cessna 172 with registration D-ECBF, was operated by an instructor.

Initially, the student pilot in the D-EZEN intended to land on runway 19 via a right downwind pattern. However, the instructor in the D-ECBF suggested that the student perform a touch-and-go for runway 01 to follow the instructor's lead. The student pilot subsequently changed his intention to a full stop on runway 01.

During the approach, the AFIS (Aerodrome Flight Information Service) operator advised the instructor that the student was landing on runway 19, but the instructor noted the student was in sight behind them. As both aircraft approached runway 01, the D-ECBF entered short final for a touch-and-go. The investigation established that both aircraft occupied the runway at the same time. While the pilots' accounts differed regarding the exact touchdown points, the objective evidence showed the D-EZEN was decelerating on the runway while the D-ECim performed a touch-and-go, passing over the first aircraft at a distance of less than 200 meters.

The investigation

The ANSV examined radio transcripts between the aircraft and the AFIS operator, as well as statements provided by the pilots. The investigation noted that Bolzano Airport operates under AFIS, which provides information and alerts but does not provide air traffic control services. Consequently, the responsibility for maintaining separation between aircraft rests solely with the pilots.

Findings

  • The primary cause was inadequate separation between the two aircraft during landing.
  • The instructor pilot in the D-ECBF influenced the student pilot to alter his planned landing for runway 19.
  • There was suboptimal coordination between the two flight crews during the landing phase.
  • Radio communications were inadequate for ensuring safe separation.
  • The student pilot modified his landing plan based on the instructor's suggestion, leading to the simultaneous runway occupancy.

Probable cause

The incident was caused by insufficient separation between the two aircraft during landing, driven by a lack of coordination between the crews, inadequate radio communications, and the instructor's influence on the student pilot to change the planned approach.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2004-12-02 C172/PA-28, accident near Aeroporto di Bolzano, IT?

A Cessna 172 and a Piper 28-A occupied the same runway simultaneously during a training flight return, following a change in landing intentions.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2004-12-02 involved a C172/PA-28,, registration D-ECBF, at Aeroporto di Bolzano, IT.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The incident was caused by insufficient separation between the two aircraft during landing, driven by a lack of coordination between the crews, inadequate radio communications, and the instructor's influence on the student pilot to change the planned approach.

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