FedEx 1204 Aborts takeoff, FedEx 976 goes around KLAX 122209
FedEx 1204 aborts takeoff at KLAX, forcing company aircraft FedEx 976 to execute a go-around.
Summary
A FedEx heavy aircraft initiated a rejected takeoff on Runway 25L at Los Angeles International Airport. Because a second FedEx heavy was on short final for the same runway, the controller had to quickly issue go-around instructions to prevent a collision. Both aircraft handled the situation professionally, with the aborting aircraft exiting the runway safely under its own power.
Analysis
This recording captures a high-stakes moment at one of the world's busiest airports, Los Angeles International (KLAX). The incident begins with FedEx 1204, a heavy aircraft (likely a DC-10 based on the controller's wake turbulence cautionary note), being cleared for takeoff on Runway 25 Left. Simultaneously, FedEx 976 is on a five-mile final for the same runway. This is a standard practice known as "anticipatory separation," where a controller expects the departing aircraft to be airborne by the time the arriving aircraft reaches the threshold.
The situation becomes critical when FedEx 1204 aborts its takeoff roll. While the transcript doesn't specify the reason for the rejected takeoff (RTO), the weather conditions mentioned—gusts up to 27 knots and reports of a 10-knot gain on short final—suggest a challenging environment involving wind shear or potential mechanical issues. When an aircraft aborts a takeoff, it remains a "hazard" on the runway until it can safely exit via a taxiway.
The controller's reaction is immediate and decisive. Upon realizing FedEx 1204 is not departing, they command FedEx 976 to go around. A "go-around" is a standard safety maneuver where the landing pilot applies full power, climbs, and re-enters the traffic pattern. In this case, the proximity of two "Heavy" aircraft adds complexity due to wake turbulence—the powerful vortices generated by large wings that can flip or stall smaller or following aircraft.
Following the abort, the controller checks if FedEx 1204 requires emergency assistance (ARFF). The pilots decline, indicating the abort was likely handled within the aircraft's braking capabilities without a fire or tire burst. However, the pilots request to switch to the ground frequency rather than taxiing back for another attempt, which is standard procedure after a high-speed abort to allow the brakes to cool and for maintenance to inspect the aircraft.
This event illustrates the "safety net" provided by Air Traffic Control. The system is designed with multiple redundancies; when the first plan (the takeoff) fails, the controller immediately pivots to the second plan (the go-around) to maintain separation. The calm, professional tone of both the pilots and the controller despite the high-speed nature of the incident is a hallmark of professional aviation.