A 
Delta Air Lines flight from Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL) to Boston (BOS) had to perform a go-around maneuver on October 24 because a jet was idling on the runway at Boston Logan International Airport, according to local news station Boston 25.
This Boeing 737-800 of Delta Air Lines is off to Raleigh. Photo: Joe Kunzler | Simple Flying
Go-around details
Delta flight DL 2196 took off from Fort Lauderdale at 19:50 local time and was scheduled to land in Boston at approximately 23:00 local time. However, as the aircraft approached the airport, the crew was informed of an unexpected situation on the runway. A plane was idling, forcing the flight to go-around, a standard safety procedure where the aircraft circles back to attempt landing again.
According to flight tracking data, the plane successfully completed the go-around and circled back for a second landing attempt. The flight eventually landed safely at around 23:06, ensuring the safety of all passengers and crew on board.
Photo: Joe Kunzler | Simple Flying
Taking too long to taxi
Delta Air Lines confirmed to local television Boston 25 that the aircraft blocking the runway was taking an unusually long time to taxi. As a result, the crew of DL 2196 made a loop around Logan before successfully landing. The audio that Boston 25 was able to collect shows an air traffic controller telling the other jet to get out of the path.
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) highlighted that the actions taken by the air traffic controller managing DL 2196 played a crucial role in preventing a loss of separation between the two aircraft, which could have led to a potential collision. The swift decision-making and effective communication were essential in ensuring safety during this incident.
Photo: Delta Air Lines
Delta flight DL 2196 was operated using a Boeing 737-800, registered as N376DA. This aircraft first took to the skies on December 15, 1998, making it nearly 26 years old. The 737-800 typically features a seating configuration of 16 in first class, 36 in premium economy, and 108 in standard economy, allowing it to accommodate a diverse range of passengers.
What happens when a plane goes around?
A go-around is a critical safety maneuver in aviation, executed when conditions are not suitable for landing. This procedure allows pilots to abort their landing approach and circle back for another attempt, prioritizing safety over a potentially risky landing. Various factors can necessitate a go-around, including runway obstructions, poor visibility, or unexpected aircraft movements. Quick decision-making by flight crews is essential in these situations to ensure the safety of all onboard.
Related
What Is A Go Around And Why Do They Occur?
Aircraft have to abort landings for a variety of reasons
The incident with DL 2196 highlights the importance of pilots being vigilant and prepared to execute a go-around when necessary, reinforcing the critical nature of these maneuvers in maintaining safety during landings. These actions help prevent accidents and preserve safe air traffic flow, eventually saving passengers and crew members in an increasingly congested environment. The Delta incident serves as a reminder of the need for excellent communication and situational awareness in aviation, ensuring that flight crews are prepared to perform go-around procedures whenever necessary.
