What happened
On May 26, 2006, at 10:48 UTC, a Thomsonfly Boeing 73 and 3Q8, registration G-THOF, landed on Runway 24 at Prague-Ruzyně Airport following a flight from Doncaster, UK. During the high-speed taxi phase, the crew intended to vacate the runway via Taxiway D. However, while navigating the intersection of Runway 24 and Runway 13, the crew failed to follow the centerline markings for Taxiway D and instead turned toward the axis of Runway 13.
The crew realized the error after completing approximately half of the turn and brought the aircraft to a stop on the active runway. Air traffic control (TWR EC) immediately instructed the aircraft to proceed to Taxiway D and avoid Runway 13. Because the aircraft had already stopped in a position that made a reversal toward Taxiway D difficult, the controller subsequently instructed the crew to continue taxiing along Runway 13 to Taxiway F. There was no other traffic on Runway 13 at the time, and no loss of separation occurred.
The investigation
The ÚZPLN investigation focused on the crew's navigation during the runway vacation and the effectiveness of the air traffic control response. The investigation reviewed Air Traffic Services (ATS) records and interviewed the crew. The commission examined the airport markings, noting that the centerline markings for the intersection of Runway 24 and Taxiway D are designed with a curve to facilitate early identification and turning. The investigation also confirmed that the crew was properly qualified and the aircraft was fully airworthy.
Findings
- The crew was attempting to vacate Runway 24 as quickly as possible to clear the runway.
- The crew failed to maintain focus on the Taxiway D centerline markings at the intersection.
- The crew's error in identifying the correct exit led to the unauthorized runway entry.
- Air traffic control responded correctly and promptly to the situation.
- There was no conflict with other airport traffic during the incident.