What happened
On February 5, 2022, at 15:22 UTC, a Boeing 787-9, registration THY224, operated by Turkish Airlines, departed from Maiquetia International Airport (SVMI) bound for Istanbul, Turkey. During the initial climb via the OSMAR departure procedure, the aircraft was instructed to climb to flight level 110.
Simultaneously, a Beechcraft SW4, registration YV221T, operating flight VCH3312 from Barcelona (SVBC) toward Maiquetia, was being vectored on a heading of 280 degrees and descending to 5,000 feet. Air Traffic Control (ATC) identified a potential conflict between the two aircraft and instructed the Turkish Airlines crew to climb to flight level 370, though the pilot requested and was granted flight level 350. The controller also notified the crew of approaching traffic in the opposite direction at 15 nautical miles.
To maintain separation, ATC instructed the Boeing 787-9 to turn right to a heading of 080 degrees. After the aircraft failed to execute the maneuver immediately, the controller issued a second instruction to turn left to heading 080. The crew of the Boeing 787-9 subsequently executed a left turn, reporting that they had experienced a TCAS Resolution alert.
The crew of the Beechcraft SW4 also observed the maneuver, noting that they witnessed the Turkish Airlines aircraft performing an evasive turn following ATC instructions.
The investigation
The JIAAC investigation involved reviewing documentation from both flight crews, including licenses and medical certificates, as well as operator records such as airworthiness and radio frequency licenses. Investigators also examined Air Navigation Services documentation, including controller interviews, voice recordings, radar progress tapes, and official logs. Meteorological conditions at the time of the incident were reported as having unlimited visibility and good weather.
Findings
- The aircraft involved were both airworthy with valid registrations.
- A TCAS Resolution alert prompted an evasive maneuver by the crew of the Boeing 787-9.
- There was a potential conflict between the climbing heavy jet and the descending light aircraft.
Safety action
- It is recommended that the National Institute of Civil Aeronautics (INAC) and Air Navigation Services provide updated training for the involved Air Traffic Controller in accordance with current technical regulations.