Almost collision over Lake Constance: Aviation in extreme proximity

Almost collision over Lake Constance: Aviation in extreme proximity

In an alarming incident above Lake Constance, an almost collision between two aircraft was dangerously close. According to a report by Schwäbische Zeitung occurred on September 18, 2024. Cessna 152 and a Cirrus SR22 that operated at a height of around 1400 meters.

The Cessna was traveling to Buttwil in the canton of Aargau on a flight from St. Gallen-Altenrhein Airport, while the Cirrus from Olbia was on Sardinia on Friedrichshafen. The incident that is classified as a "serious incident" has caused the Swiss Security Investigation Center (Sust) to open an investigation.

dark memories of Überlingen

This almost catastrophic incident evokes memories of the tragic collision that occurred on July 1, 2002 about Überlingen. 71 people died in this accident, including numerous children. A report by nau emphasizes that wreckage and body parts were distributed over several square kilometers and all occupants of those involved were distributed Airplanes died.

Technical defects and human failure at the air traffic controller organization Skyguide were identified as the causes of the accident. The responsible air traffic controller only had limited access to the necessary radar and telephone communication systems and noticed the impending misfortune much too late.

memory and perspectives

On the 20th anniversary of the Überlinger accident, there is a memorial event that receives a special political dimension due to the Ukraine War. While Russian representatives are not invited, around 40 members of the victims are expected. Police director Hans-Peter Walser, who was then in action, emphasizes the importance of commemoration and solidarity of the community.

In recent years, however, the number and severity of the aircraft fall has decreased. According to Statista there were 233 fatalities in 2022 through aircraft turrets, while this number was often over 1,000 annually before the millennium. The accident rate in commercial aviation remains low compared to driving. Many accidents occur during landing, which is due to the often complex requirements for angles and speed.

Technological progress, such as the development of landing assistants, help to continue to minimize the risk of accidents. However, the incident above Lake Constance and the accompanying memory of the tragedies of the past have brought the essential importance of security in aviation again.