Factual Information
On Monday, 13 January 2020, at approximately 15:15 UTC, a Cessna C172R, registration EC-KNI, operated by European Flyers, was on a visual approach to runway 27 at Madrid-Cuatro Vientos Airport. The aircraft was at an altitude of about 2500 ft (approximately 230 ft above runway elevation) and about 0.4 NM from the threshold. At the same time, a Piper PA-34-220T, registration EC-FIF, operated by Aerotec, had been cleared for takeoff on the same runway and was beginning its takeoff roll. The Cessna crew executed a go-around. The minimum separation between the aircraft was estimated at 0.22 NM at the critical moment. Both aircraft were conducting training flights with two crew members each; none were injured. No damage to either aircraft occurred.
Analysis
The investigation determined that the incident resulted from an incorrect perception of the operational situation by the student air traffic controller. A contributing factor was the lack of earlier intervention by the On-the-Job Training Instructor (OJTI).
Conclusion
The probable cause of the incident was the student controller's incorrect perception of the operational situation. No safety recommendations were issued.