FAA Investigates Runway Incursion at LAX Involving Air France Flight

On April 8, 2023, an Air France flight, designated AF25, was forced to abort its takeoff from Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) due to a runway incursion involving a Gulfstream G650ER. The incident occurred around 6:15 p.m. when air traffic controllers canceled the takeoff clearance for the Air France Boeing 777-300ER after the Gulfstream entered the runway without authorization. The Air France flight was bound for Charles de Gaulle Airport in Paris.

Air France Flight Aborts Takeoff At LAX After Gulfstream Enters Runway Without PermissionNBC Los Angeles

The Air France aircraft had received clearance for takeoff and was accelerating down the runway when the Gulfstream jet, which had just landed from San Francisco International Airport, crossed the hold short line and entered the runway. The Air France pilots were alerted to the incursion by runway warning lights and promptly rejected the takeoff. Fortunately, the pilots managed to decelerate safely, avoiding a potential collision. After the runway was cleared, the Air France flight re-attempted its departure and successfully took off shortly thereafter, arriving in Paris approximately nine hours and 57 minutes later.

Air France Flight Aborts Takeoff At LAX After Gulfstream Enters Runway Without PermissionNBC Los Angeles

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is currently investigating the incident. The FAA's inquiry will focus on the actions of the Gulfstream pilot, who had been instructed to hold short of the runway but failed to comply. This incident follows a recent trend of close calls at major airports, raising concerns about air traffic safety.

NBC Los Angeles

While no injuries were reported in this incident, it highlights ongoing issues with runway safety at busy airports. Critics argue that the FAA must enhance its oversight and implement stricter protocols to prevent similar occurrences in the future. The recent near-miss at LAX, coupled with a fatal incident at LaGuardia Airport involving an Air Canada Express flight, has intensified scrutiny on air traffic control procedures.

Air France Flight Aborts Takeoff At LAX After Gulfstream Enters Runway Without Permission

Air traffic control audio recordings revealed that the Gulfstream pilot acknowledged the instruction to hold short of the runway but nonetheless crossed the line. The FAA has not yet released a statement regarding the findings of their investigation. Air France has not commented publicly on the incident, and efforts to reach the Gulfstream's operator for a response have been unsuccessful.

NBC Los AngelesAir France Flight Aborts Takeoff At LAX After Gulfstream Enters Runway Without Permission

• “Pilots onboard the Air France flight were quick to react and were able to decelerate and avoid a collision.” — NBC4 Report

Air France Flight Aborts Takeoff At LAX After Gulfstream Enters Runway Without Permission

• “Related American Airlines Airbus A321 Slams On Brakes During Takeoff As AeroLogic Boeing 777 Crosses Runway At LAX A disaster was narrowly avoided at LAX thanks to the sharpness and quick thinking of pilots and the controller.” — Simple Flying Report

Air France Flight Aborts Takeoff At LAX After Gulfstream Enters Runway Without Permission

The FAA's investigation into the runway incursion is ongoing, and further details are expected to emerge as the agency reviews communications and procedures related to the incident. Additionally, the FAA will likely assess the broader implications for air traffic safety protocols at LAX and other major airports.

NBC Los Angeles