What happened
On 20 March 2014, a private pilot operating a Piper PA-28-181, registration HB-PLY, was conducting a visual flight rules (VFR) flight from Nuremberg to Birrfeld. Due to the onset of twilight, the pilot decided to divert to Zurich Airport for a landing.
As the pilot approached Zurich, he mistakenly identified runway 32 as his intended landing strip. At the same time, a Hawker 80/XP, registration CS-DRC, operating as flight NJE 424R, was on short final approach to runway 14. Because runway 32 and runway 14 are oriented in opposite directions, the two aircraft entered a state of dangerous proximity, coming within approximately 175 feet of vertical separation and 1.9 nautical miles of horizontal separation. This encounter was classified as an ICAO Category A airprox, representing a high risk of collision.
Upon realizing the error, the pilot of HB-PLY immediately initiated a go-around. A second approach attempt also resulted in a heading toward the wrong runway. Following instructions from the Zurich Tower air traffic controller, a third approach was conducted, which allowed the pilot to successfully land on the correct runway, 28.
The investigation
The Swiss Transportation Safety Investigation Board (STSB) examined radar data, radio communications, and runway lighting controls. The investigation focused on why the pilot misidentified the runway and why the aircraft were on conflicting paths. Investigators noted that while the pilot was competent, the lack of night flying experience at this specific airport and the lack of preparation for a night arrival played significant roles. The investigation also looked into the visibility of runway lights and the use of onboard navigation equipment.
Findings
- The pilot of HB-RE-PLY misidentified the runway because the lighting for runway 32 was highly visible from his approach angle, whereas runway 28 was partially obscured by buildings and surrounding bright light sources.
- The pilot failed to use available navigation tools, such as GPS or ILS signals, which could have clarified the correct approach path.
- The pilot's preparation for a night arrival at Zurich was inadequate due to the short-notice diversion.
- Internal cockpit lighting for the instrument panel was functional but had not been switched on, making the heading indicator unreadable.
- The crew of the Hawker 80/XP did not observe the incident, as the HB-PLY landing lights were relatively weak and the TCAS did not provide an advisory.