Why did a TAP Air Portugal A320neo fly dangerously low at Prague Airport?
Aviation News Editor & Industry Analyst delivering clear coverage for a worldwide audience.
Czech authorities are investigating a TAP Air Portugal A320neo for flying below safe altitudes at Prague Airport; the incident occurred on January 17.
Key Takeaways
- •Investigating a descent below minimum safe altitude at Prague's Václav Havel Airport.
- •Analyzing flight data from the TAP Air Portugal Airbus A320neo involved.
- •Reviewing TAWS alerts and pilot communication during the January 17 incident.
Czech aviation experts are looking into a serious event at Prague's Václav Havel Airport. On January 17, 2026, a TAP Air Portugal flight came too close to the ground. The aircraft was an Airbus A320neo, a modern jet known for its efficiency.
Reports show the plane flew below the minimum safe altitude during its approach. This altitude is the lowest height a plane can safely fly. It helps pilots avoid hills, buildings, or other obstacles. The Czech Air Accidents Investigation Institute (UZPLN) is now leading the probe.
What Happened During the Approach?
The flight was nearing the end of its journey to Prague. During the final stages, the plane descended faster than planned. This triggered concerns about a "near-grounding" risk. Experts call this a Controlled Flight Into Terrain (CFIT) risk.
Modern planes like the Airbus A320neo use advanced safety tools. These include the Terrain Awareness and Warning System (TAWS). This system tells pilots if they are too close to the ground. Investigators will check if these alarms went off during the flight.
Why This Investigation Matters
Safety is the top priority for airlines and regulators. The EASA sets strict rules for flying in European skies. Any breach of altitude rules is treated as a major issue.
Key safety factors being looked at include:
- Weather conditions at the time of the landing.
- Communication between the pilots and air traffic control.
- The technical health of the aircraft's navigation systems.
Impact on Aviation Safety
Incidents like this help the industry learn. By finding out what went wrong, authorities can prevent future mistakes. This keeps flying one of the safest ways to travel.
The investigation is still in its early stages. Experts will look at data from the flight data recorder. They will also listen to the cockpit voice recorder. This will provide a clear picture of those critical moments near the ground.
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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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