Near mid-air collision in the Rotterdam Control Zone
On the 15th of June 2022 two pilots flew in the Rotterdam Control Zone (CTR). One aircraft approached Runway 06, while the other aircraft took off from Runway 06. Both aircraft were instructed by ATC to follow the standard ROMEO procedures in the Rotterdam Control Zone. At an altitude of 1,500 feet both flight paths cross each other. Just before both aircraft were at the crossing point, one of the pilots made an evasive action to prevent a possible collision.
Air Traffic Control has an overarching responsibility
In general aviation it is common to fly using VFR (visual flight rules). When flying VFR, pilots need sufficient visibility to navigate and to avoid other aircraft. According to Air Traffic Control the Netherlands (LVNL) is it the VFR pilot’s responsibly to maintain a safe distance between aircraft. The Dutch Safety Board has a different opinion: ATC has an overarching responsibility in preventing mid-air collisions in a controlled airspace. This also applies for VFR operations.
Chris van Dam, chairman of the Dutch Safety Board: “You cannot act on traffic you cannot see. ATC has a big responsibility in preventing mid-air collisions from happening. ATC the Netherlands (LVNL) should take this responsibility”.
Recommendations
To Air traffic Control Netherlands (LVNL):
For safety reasons:
1. Secure on short notice and in consultation with stakeholders that arriving VFR traffic and departing VFR traffic in the CTR of Rotterdam The Hague Airport, have under all circumstances no crossing flight paths at the same altitude.
2. Include the objectives of Commission Implementing Regulation (EU) 2017/373 ATS.TR.100 for VFR operations in class C and D airspace in LVNL policy for procedures and/or training in order to prevent collisions between VFR traffic.
To the International Civil Aviation Organisation and to the European Union Aviation Safety Agency:
3. For the purpose of accident and incident investigation, amend the retention period of background communication and aural environment recordings in air traffic services from 24 hours of operation to 30 days (ICAO annex 11, Commission Implementing Regulation (EU) 2020/469, ATS.OR.460).
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- Download bestand:Respons Dutch Safety Board to follow-up to recommendations 'Near mid-air collision Rotterdam Control Zone
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