What happened
On August 29, 2004, a M20P, registration D-EKHB, was conducting a VFR flight from Jakabszállás, Hungary (LHJK), to Bautzen, Germany (EDAB). While transitioning through the ODNEM–HDO sector, the aircraft entered the Brno-Tuřany controlled airspace (CTA LKTB) without establishing radio contact with the local approach control.
Prior to entering the Czech FIR, the pilot had been maintaining communication with the Slovak ACC (LZIB) on frequency 124.3 MHz. However, the pilot failed to comply with the instruction to switch to the Brno approach frequency (119.1 MHz) upon reaching the entry point. Consequently, the aircraft flew within the LKTB CTA and the Brno-Medlánky (LKCM) airspace—where flight demonstrations for an Air Show were actively taking place—for approximately 11 minutes without communication.
To resolve the situation, the Brno approach controller coordinated with another aircraft operating in the area, an OK-DYQ, which was able to establish contact with the pilot of D-EKHD on the Slovak frequency. Once the connection was made, the pilot of D-EKHB was instructed to change frequencies and immediately alter course to avoid the active airshow area at LKCM.
The investigation
The ÚZPLN investigation focused on the actions of the pilot and the response of the air traffic services. The investigation established that the pilot had the necessary tools for navigation, including VFR charts and visual cues, to identify the boundaries of the flight information region and the required reporting points. The investigation also reviewed the radio communication logs and radar data from the Brno approach station.
Findings
- The pilot performed inadequate pre-flight preparation.
- The pilot failed to follow the instruction to switch frequencies from the Slovak ACC to the Brno approach control at the designated entry point.
- The aircraft entered the Brno CTA without the required flight authorization.
- The pilot failed to maintain continuous two-way radio communication required for Class D airspace.
- The air traffic controller followed established procedures for handling a loss of communication by using another aircraft to relay instructions.
- The controller successfully issued a course change instruction to ensure separation from the airshow activity.