What happened
On November 2, 2018, a pilot conducting a navigational training flight in a Cessna 172S, registration OK-FCA, encountered difficulties during landing at Příbram Airport (LKPM). The flight, which began as a planned route from LKPM to LKBE and LKTC, was modified when the pilot decided to return to LKPM earlier than planned to ensure arrival before sunset.
As the sun set, the pilot attempted to land on runway 06R multiple times. The first attempt failed due to a high flare, and subsequent attempts resulted in bounces, leading the pilot to execute several go-around maneuvers. As twilight progressed into darkness, the pilot's uncertainty regarding the aircraft's height and touchdown point increased. After several unsuccessful attempts on both runway 06R and 24L, the pilot was unable to establish contact with the local radio station and instead contacted FIC Praha on an alternative frequency to request assistance.
The investigation
The ÚZPLN investigation established that the pilot, while technically qualified for night VFR flight, did not yet have the specific night rating formally entered into his license at the time of the incident. The investigation reviewed the flight trajectory, meteorological conditions, and communication logs between the pilot and FIC Praha. The investigators also noted that the pilot had sufficient fuel reserves and had planned the flight with a margin for unexpected circumstances, though the deteriorating light conditions eventually exceeded his comfort level for landing at an airfield not equipped for night operations.
Findings
- The pilot performed several landing attempts under rapidly changing light conditions following sunset.
- The pilot's uncertainty regarding the aircraft's altitude during the flare led to multiple bounces and go-arounds.
- The pilot was unable to maintain controlled landing technique during the transition from twilight to night visibility.
- FIC Praha provided necessary coordination and recommended headings to guide the pilot to Prague (LKPR), where the aircraft successfully landed using the available lighting systems.
- The pilot correctly identified that the lack of visibility at LKPM made further attempts unsafe and sought professional guidance to divert to a suitable airport.