Czechs Investigate TAP A320neo After Steep Descent Near Prague
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Czech authorities are investigating a TAP Air Portugal A320neo for a near-CFIT event after it descended far below its cleared altitude near Prague.
Key Takeaways
- •Investigating a near-Controlled Flight Into Terrain (CFIT) event involving a TAP A320neo.
- •Descended to 968 feet, far below the 3,600-foot minimum safe altitude near Prague.
- •Triggered a critical Terrain Awareness and Warning System (TAWS) alert, not TCAS.
- •Highlights the role of automated safety systems in preventing potential accidents.
Czech aviation authorities have launched a formal investigation into a serious incident involving a TAP Air Portugal Airbus A320neo that experienced a dramatic, unauthorized descent during its approach to Prague on January 17, 2026. The event, classified as a near Controlled Flight Into Terrain (CFIT), triggered an automated warning that prompted the crew to execute a rapid recovery maneuver just moments before a potential disaster.
The incident highlights the critical role of modern onboard safety systems in preventing accidents. While the aircraft and its passengers landed safely, the investigation by the Czech Úřad pro civilní letectví (UZPLN), or Civil Aviation Authority, will focus on flight crew actions and the use of aircraft automation during a critical phase of flight. The event serves as a significant case study for understanding the interplay between pilots and technology in high-stress situations.
Incident Details
The flight, TP1240 from Lisbon (LIS) to Prague (PRG), was on its final approach when the crew was cleared by Air Traffic Control (ATC) to maintain an altitude of 4,000 feet. However, flight data shows the aircraft, registered as CS-TVG, continued to descend well below this clearance. According to the UZPLN, the A320neo dropped to approximately 300 meters (968 feet) above the ground. This was significantly lower than the minimum safe altitude of 3,600 feet for that segment of the approach.
The aircraft's Terrain Awareness and Warning System (TAWS), an onboard system designed to prevent CFIT events, issued an urgent alert to the flight crew. Responding to the TAWS warning, the pilots initiated a steep climb, recovering to a safe altitude. The aircraft proceeded to land safely in Prague approximately 11 minutes later. Initial media reports incorrectly suggested the incident involved a near mid-air collision and a Traffic Collision Avoidance System (TCAS) alert; however, official sources have confirmed the incident was related to proximity to terrain, not another aircraft.
Investigation and Context
The UZPLN, in cooperation with the Air Accidents Investigation Institute (AAII), has secured the aircraft's flight data and cockpit voice recorders for analysis. Josef Bejdák, deputy director of the AAII, confirmed the investigation's focus, stating, “Radar systems detected a deviation from the assigned flight altitude of 4,000 feet... We are investigating the situation as a serious incident.”
Experts suggest that potential contributing factors often include the incorrect use of autopilot systems or a misinterpretation of ATC instructions, areas central to the study of human factors in aviation. This near-CFIT event underscores the effectiveness of TAWS as a final safety barrier. According to late 2024 data from CAPA - Centre for Aviation, TAP Air Portugal operates a fleet of 99 aircraft, with modern 'neo' family aircraft comprising 69% of its medium and long-haul fleet. These aircraft are equipped with advanced safety suites like the one that activated during the Prague incident. A detailed report from the investigation is expected, though a timeline for its release has not been announced. For a technical summary of the flight path, see the report from The Aviation Herald.
Why This Matters
In my view, this incident is a stark reminder that even with highly automated aircraft and robust safety nets, the potential for human error remains a critical factor in aviation safety. It powerfully demonstrates the non-negotiable value of systems like TAWS and the continuous need for rigorous training on automation management, especially during the approach and landing phases. For aviation professionals, it serves as a crucial case study on how the final layer of technology can successfully avert a catastrophe when other procedures fail.
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Written by Ujjwal Sukhwani
Aviation News Editor & Industry Analyst delivering clear coverage for a worldwide audience. Covers flight operations, safety regulations, and market trends with expert analysis.
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