Austin Tower FedExSouthwest runway incursion
A FedEx 767 narrowly avoids a collision with a Southwest 737 during low-visibility operations in Austin.
Summary
On a foggy morning in Austin, a FedEx cargo plane on final approach was cleared to land on the same runway where a Southwest passenger jet was cleared for takeoff. The FedEx crew realized the danger at the last moment, initiating a go-around and overflying the Southwest aircraft by less than 100 feet. This incident is considered one of the closest near-collisions in modern aviation history.
Analysis
This incident occurred during Category III ILS conditions, meaning visibility was extremely low (dense fog). FedEx 1432, a Boeing 767, was on a 3-mile final approach when the Austin Tower controller cleared Southwest 708, a Boeing 737, for takeoff on the same runway (18L). In these weather conditions, the controller could not see the aircraft from the tower and was relying on pilot reports and estimated timing, as Austin-Bergstrom International Airport lacked surface movement radar (ASDE-X) at the time.
The tension builds as the FedEx crew, sensing the tight timing, asks the controller to confirm their landing clearance. The controller confirms and tells them a 737 is departing prior to their arrival. However, the Southwest jet was slow to begin its takeoff roll. By the time Southwest reported they were "rolling now," the FedEx 767 was nearly over the runway threshold. Realizing the Southwest jet was still on the runway directly beneath them, the FedEx pilot took command of the radio, shouting, "Southwest, abort! FedEx is on the go."
Because the Southwest aircraft was already at a high speed, the pilots elected to continue the takeoff rather than abort, which could have resulted in a high-speed overrun or a collision if the FedEx plane landed. The FedEx crew executed a go-around, climbing and maneuvering to ensure they stayed clear of the Southwest jet. NTSB data later revealed the two aircraft came within approximately 115 feet of each other.
The aftermath of this event led to significant scrutiny of Air Traffic Control procedures during low visibility and accelerated the push for ground surveillance technology at more U.S. airports. The FedEx crew is widely credited with preventing a disaster through their situational awareness and assertive communication. The recording concludes with a rare and somber apology from the controller to the FedEx crew after they finally landed safely.