What happened
On June 16, 2005, a Robin DR 40 and/80 (registration D-EFKV) was part of a five-aircraft formation approaching Mladá Boleslav airport. Upon entering the aerodrome traffic zone, the AFIS dispatcher provided information for using runway 34 based on the current wind conditions.
During the final approach, the pilot observed a white cross on runway 34, indicating the runway was closed, and noted that the grass in the touchdown area was excessively high. While the pilot intended to query the dispatcher regarding the runway status, they heard another aircraft in the formation announce an intention to perform a flyby, followed by the dispatcher providing landing instructions for runway 24.
The pilot initially decided to perform a flyby as well; however, upon noticing nearby trees and realizing the aircraft's low altitude would prevent clearing the obstacle, the pilot reverted to the decision to land. The aircraft touched down in the final third of runway 34. Despite heavy braking, the aircraft could not be stopped within the remaining distance and collided with the edge of a local road.
The investigation
The ÚZPLN investigation established that while the aircraft was airworthy and the pilot held valid qualifications, the airport's runway 16/34 was officially closed for all takeoffs and landings via NOTAM, marked with a white cross and partially mowed.
The investigation revealed a breakdown in communication: the airport manager had informed the AFIS dispatcher that runway 16/34 was closed and only available for taxiing. However, the dispatcher provided landing instructions for runway 34 to the arriving group, unaware that the physical markings for the runway closure were already in place. The pilot's decision-making process regarding whether to follow the dispatcher's instructions or respect the visual runway markings consumed critical time, leaving insufficient margin to execute a safe go-around.
Findings
- The primary cause of the accident was the delayed decision by the crew to execute a go-around and the subsequent landing on the final third of the runway.
- The crew's decision was significantly influenced by conflicting information provided by the AFIS dispatcher.
- The aircraft sustained extensive damage, including a destroyed propeller, damaged engine mount, damaged wing, and damaged flaps, rendering the aircraft a total loss.
- One passenger sustained minor injuries.