Southwest Airlines Boeing 737-700 Departs from Closed Runway at Portland Jetport

The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has initiated an investigation into an incident involving a Southwest Airlines Boeing 737-700. On June 25, 2023, flight 4805 departed from a closed runway at Portland International Jetport in Maine, scheduled to fly to Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport.

Despite runway 11/29 being closed except for taxi and crossing traffic, the aircraft took off at 05:40, with a ground vehicle reported crossing at the time. The flight proceeded safely to its destination, but the incident raised significant safety concerns.

According to a NOTAM issued on June 20, runway 11/29 is closed from 22:30 to 05:45. Southwest Airlines confirmed its cooperation with the NTSB and FAA to investigate the circumstances surrounding the departure.

Air traffic control audio revealed that controllers warned Southwest about the runway closure, yet the aircraft proceeded. The incident highlights the importance of strict adherence to air traffic control instructions and situational awareness.

Recent Southwest Developments

In other news, Southwest Airlines recently announced plans to seek approval for new routes following the FAA’s Reauthorization Act. The act permits five new routes exceeding the 1,250-mile perimeter at Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport. Southwest aims to operate flights from Harry Reid International Airport to DCA, competing with other airlines for these routes.

Supported by a US Senator, Southwest’s new route is expected to bolster jobs in the tourism industry. Currently, Southwest schedules 2,692 flights to and from DCA next month, offering over 415,000 seats. Its busiest route from DCA is to Chicago’s Midway Airport, with up to six daily roundtrips.

The NTSB investigation will focus on ensuring such incidents are avoided in the future, reinforcing safety protocols and adherence to NOTAMs.