NTSB Finds Pilot Error Led to Near Takeoff Mishap at Orlando

On March 20, 2025, a Southwest Airlines Boeing 737-800 nearly took off from a taxiway at Orlando International Airport (MCO) instead of the designated runway. Fortunately, air traffic control intervened, and the takeoff was aborted without incident. All 152 passengers and six crew members on board returned safely to the apron. The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has since identified pilot error as the primary cause of the incident.

The aircraft was preparing for its journey to Albany, New York (ALB) when the crew mistakenly initiated the takeoff roll on taxiway H2, which runs parallel to runway 17R. Air traffic controllers noticed the aircraft’s incorrect positioning and promptly canceled its takeoff clearance. The pilots then rejected the takeoff, bringing the aircraft back to safety.

Investigation Highlights Pilot Actions

The NTSB, collaborating with the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), released a comprehensive report on December 11, 2025. A significant finding revealed that the captain had failed to recognize that the aircraft was not aligned with the assigned departure runway. The report stated, “The captain’s failure to recognize that the airplane’s location did not agree with the assigned departure runway… [and] continuation error when he missed several cues that would have informed him that he was not on the assigned departure runway.”

During the investigation, the captain recounted the moments leading up to the incident. After receiving takeoff clearance, he turned right onto taxiway H2 instead of continuing to runway 17R. Despite seeing the sign for runway 17R, he failed to recognize he was on a taxiway. The captain disclosed that he was focused on centering the aircraft and completing pre-takeoff checklists, which distracted him from noticing the taxiway surface.

When investigators inquired about the runway numbers, the captain explained that he could not see them from the cockpit. He relied on visual references, including lighting and a moving map display, to navigate during taxiing.

Failure to Follow Standard Operating Procedures

The NTSB report highlighted that the captain did not adhere to Southwest Airlines’ standard operating procedures (SOP). These procedures provide a series of references that pilots must use to confirm their aircraft’s correct position for takeoff. Such references include navigation displays, runway signage, and painted runway designations.

The NTSB found that the captain failed to utilize these visual references adequately. He overlooked crucial visual cues, such as the yellow painted centerline and the noticeable differences in surface texture between the taxiway and the runway. Additionally, the first officer was reportedly distracted by the captain’s requests to confirm checklist items during the taxi, which further deviated from the airline’s SOPs.

While the incident concluded without injuries or damage, it underscores the critical importance of adherence to operational protocols in aviation. With air travel expected to remain busy, particularly during peak seasons, ensuring pilots are vigilant and follow procedures is paramount for passenger safety.