A Southwest Airlines flight nearly took off from a Florida taxiway on Thursday before an air traffic controller stopped the potentially dangerous departure, officials said.
The incident involving Flight 3278 nearly unfolded at Orlando International Airport at 9:30 a.m. as the plane attempted to depart for Albany, officials said.
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Southwest Airlines said its crew “mistook the surface for the nearby runway” and no injuries were reported.
“An air traffic controller at Orlando International Airport canceled the takeoff clearance for Southwest Airlines Flight 3278 … after the aircraft began its takeoff roll on a taxiway,” according to an FAA statement. “The taxiway runs parallel to the runway. The flight was headed to Albany International Airport in New York. No other aircraft were involved. The FAA is investigating.”
All customers were put on another flight for Albany.
This is a developing story. Please check back for updates.
Senior Reporter
