Flight History
On 7 September 2019, an Airbus A320-214 operated by Alitalia, registration EI-IKL, was performing flight AZA060 from Rome-Fiumicino to Madrid-Barajas. Simultaneously, a Boeing 737-8AS operated by Ryanair, registration EI-ENN, was performing flight RYR4UX from Mahón to Madrid-Barajas. Both aircraft had been cleared to fly to the ASBIN point and were practically one above the other for several minutes while maintaining appropriate vertical separation. They were under the control of the integrated approach sector RNN of the Madrid TMA.
Both crews breached instructions regarding their respective rates of descent, causing the aircraft to approach each other more than prescribed, which led to a loss of separation. Neither crew reported receiving TCAS resolution advisories, and no evasive maneuvers were executed. Separation was restored through instructions from air traffic control.
Injuries and Damage
According to the report, there were no injuries. The Alitalia aircraft carried 158 passengers and 6 crew; the Ryanair aircraft carried 190 passengers and 6 crew. All persons on board were uninjured. No damage occurred to either aircraft or any other property.
Closest Approach
Based on radar track data, the point of closest approach occurred at FL185, with the aircraft 1.4 nautical miles apart horizontally and 300 feet apart vertically. The incident took place approximately 58 nautical miles east-southeast of Madrid-Barajas Airport.
Conclusions
The investigation determined that the loss of separation was due to the failure of both crews to comply with the respective instructions received involving the rates of descent that both aircraft were required to follow. No safety recommendations were issued.