What happened
On April 25, 2005, at 19:20 UTC, a Korean Air Airbus A330, registration HL 7587, was taxiing at Prague/Ruzyně Airport (LKPR). Following instructions from Air Traffic Services (ATS), the crew proceeded from Taxiway F onto Runway 31 with the intention of performing a 180-degree turn to position the aircraft for takeoff from Runway 13.
During the maneuver, the crew crossed the light bars marking the displaced threshold for Runway 13/31 and came to a halt. The crew realized that the width of Runway 31 was insufficient to complete the required 180-degree turn using the aircraft's own power. As a result, the aircraft became immobilized on a closed portion of the runway. The crew requested assistance via ATS, and the aircraft was subsequently towed to stand 38 for refueling. The incident caused delays for five other flight operations, ranging from 15 to 45 minutes. The aircraft departed at 21:35.
The investigation
The ÚZPLN investigation examined the crew's taxiing procedures and the airfield markings. The investigation established that the crew held valid qualifications and that all relevant runway and taxiway markings, including the displaced threshold, complied with standard regulations. Furthermore, the changes regarding the displaced threshold had been properly published in the AIP Czech Republic and via NOTAM, and were included in the pre-flight information provided to the crew. The investigation also noted that neither Jeppesen charts nor the AIP Czech Republic provided information regarding an expanded area on Runway 13/31 suitable for a 180-degree turn.
Findings
- The crew failed to adequately assess the turning radius requirements for an Airbus A330 given the specific width of Runway 31 at LKPR.
- The crew did not adhere to the taxiing instructions contained in the pre-flight information and the specific ATS instructions regarding the maneuver.