This incident involves an emergency diversion due to the unavailability of an RNP approach slot at Leeds East Airport on a Cirrus SR22. The flight was intended to practice RNP approaches, but due to procedural requirements and limited slots, the aircraft encountered operational challenges.

1. Situation

A private pilot and their passenger departed on a pleasure flight in a Cirrus SR22, planning to practice RNP approaches at Leeds East Airport.

The pilot was aware of the requirement to read the Pilot Briefing and obtain Prior Permission Required (PPR) clearance for the approach slot at the airport, as outlined in the briefing - updated regularly - provided by the airport.

2. Task

The task was to execute a successful RNP approach at Leeds East Airport, demonstrating proficiency in advanced instrument approach procedures and adherence to regulatory requirements.

3. Action

Before departure, the pilot read the Pilot Briefing document and obtained PPR clearance for the RNP approach slot at Leeds East Airport.

The document clearly stated that only one approach slot is available per hour, which is shared with a nearby airport.

Once booked, the approach slot is exclusively allocated to the aircraft for that hour.

As the Cirrus SR22 approached Leeds East Airport, the pilot contacted the tower to confirm their approach slot and receive clearance for the RNP approach.

However, due to prior bookings and operational constraints, the tower informed the pilot that the approach slot for that hour was already allocated to another aircraft.

Despite the pilot's preparation and adherence to the briefing requirements, the unavailability of the approach slot meant that the aircraft could not proceed with the planned RNP approach at Leeds East Airport.

The tower advised the pilot to hold or divert to an alternate airport due to the lack of available approach slots.

Understanding the operational constraints and the importance of adhering to approach procedures, the pilot decided to divert to the nearest alternate airport listed in their flight plan.

They communicated their decision and intentions to ATC, who provided vectors and clearances for the diversion.

The Cirrus SR22 proceeded to the alternate airport, where they executed a successful approach and landing without further incident.

The pilot ensured the safety and comfort of their passenger throughout the diversion process.

4. Result

The flight safely diverted to the alternate airport, and the pilot effectively managed the situation despite the unavailability of the RNP approach slot at Leeds East Airport.

The decision to prioritise safety and comply with operational procedures demonstrated good judgment and adherence to regulatory requirements.

The key lesson learned from this incident is the critical importance of thorough pre-flight preparation, including reading required briefings and obtaining necessary permissions for specific approach procedures.

The pilot’s adherence to the Pilot Briefing and PPR requirements was essential, but the operational constraints highlighted the dynamic nature of airport operations and the importance of flexibility in flight planning.

This incident underscored the value of proactive communication with ATC and effective decision-making in response to operational challenges during flight operations.

It emphasised the necessity for pilots to be aware of airport-specific procedures and limitations, such as approach slot availability and shared resources with nearby airports.

The pilot’s experience served as a reminder of the importance of comprehensive briefing and preparation to enhance safety and mitigate risks during flight operations.

This case study provided valuable insights and lessons for the pilot and emphasised the importance of thorough pre-flight planning and flexibility in aviation operations.