FedEx Flight 1170: A Case Study in Aviation Safety

FedEx Flight 1170: A Case Study in Aviation Safety

On August 7, 2020, FedEx Flight 1170, a Boeing 757, experienced a harrowing incident during its approach to Memphis International Airport. The aircraft, carrying a crew of two and cargo, was cleared to land on Runway 36R. However, due to a combination of factors, the pilots mistakenly lined up for Runway 36L, a parallel runway that was occupied by a Southwest Airlines 737.

The incident highlights a critical aspect of aviation safety: the potential for human error. This case study explores the events leading up to the near-collision, analyzes the factors that contributed to the mistake, and examines the lessons learned from this incident.

The Events Leading Up to the Incident

The FedEx 757 was cleared for a visual approach to Runway 36R. The pilots, however, misinterpreted the visual cues and inadvertently lined up for Runway 36L. This misalignment was compounded by the fact that the FedEx pilots were not using their aircraft’s Ground Proximity Warning System (GPWS), which would have alerted them to the potential hazard.

The Southwest Airlines 737, which was already on Runway 36L, was preparing for takeoff. The cockpit crew was unaware of the FedEx aircraft’s misalignment until it was too late. Fortunately, the FedEx pilots recognized their error in time and initiated a go-around maneuver, avoiding a potential catastrophe.

Factors Contributing to the Error

Several factors contributed to the FedEx pilots’ error:

• Misinterpretation of Visual Cues: The pilots may have been influenced by the layout of the airport and the surrounding terrain, leading them to misjudge the intended runway.
• Lack of Use of GPWS: The GPWS is designed to alert pilots of potential ground collisions. The FedEx pilots’ failure to utilize this safety system likely contributed to the misalignment.
• Fatigue: While not confirmed, fatigue can impair judgment and decision-making, potentially contributing to errors.
• Communication Breakdown: There may have been a lack of clear communication between the pilots and air traffic control, contributing to the misalignment.

Lessons Learned

The FedEx Flight 1170 incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of aviation safety measures. The incident led to a thorough investigation and a series of recommendations aimed at preventing similar events in the future.

The investigation highlighted the importance of:

• Enhanced Pilot Training: The incident emphasized the need for comprehensive training programs that focus on situational awareness, visual cues, and the proper use of safety systems.
• Improved Communication: Clear and concise communication between pilots and air traffic control is crucial for safe operations. The incident underscored the need for effective communication protocols.
• Technology Advancement: The incident highlighted the potential benefits of incorporating advanced technology, such as enhanced ground proximity warning systems and automated runway alignment systems.
• Fatigue Management: Addressing pilot fatigue is essential for maintaining safe operations. Implementing effective fatigue management strategies can help prevent errors caused by fatigue.

Conclusion

The FedEx Flight 1170 incident serves as a stark reminder of the fragility of aviation safety. Human error, while unavoidable, can be mitigated through comprehensive training, effective communication, and the use of advanced technology. By learning from past incidents and implementing preventive measures, the aviation industry can continue to strive for a safer and more reliable system.