Overview
• Operator: Southwest Airlines
• Aircraft Model: Boeing 737-800
• Registration: N8517F
• Flight Number: WN-2504
• Route: Omaha (OMA) to Chicago Midway (MDW)
• Date: 25 February 2025
• Occupants: Not specified
• Casualties: None reported
• Nature of Incident: Runway incursion involving a Bombardier Challenger 35, requiring a last-minute go-around
Incident Summary
A Southwest Airlines Boeing 737-800, operating as flight WN-2504, was in the flare to land on runway 31C at Midway Airport (MDW) at 08:48 local time when the crew initiated a go-around due to a business jet crossing the runway.
A Bombardier Challenger 35 was taxiing for departure from runway 22L and was tracking runway 04L, crossing runway 31C despite clear hold-short instructions from ground control.
The tower controller was just about to instruct the Southwest crew to go around when they proactively initiated the maneuver on their own, avoiding a potential collision. The aircraft climbed out safely, re-entered the approach sequence, and landed on runway 31C approximately 15 minutes later.
The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has launched an investigation into the runway incursion.
Sequence of Events
Pre-incident Conditions:
• The weather was clear, with light winds from the north-northwest (340° at 11 knots) and good visibility.
• Southwest flight WN-2504 was executing a normal approach to runway 31C, with no reported technical issues.
• A Bombardier Challenger 35 was taxiing for departure from runway 22L, following runway 04L to cross runway 31C.
Runway Incursion & Go-around Decision:
• The business jet had been instructed to hold short of runway 31C but failed to comply.
• At approximately 1,600 feet (500 meters) before the intersection with runway 04L, WN-2504 was already just feet above the runway in the flare when the crew saw the Challenger entering the runway.
• Without waiting for ATC instruction, the Southwest crew initiated a go-around.
• Seven seconds later, as WN-2504 crossed the intersection at 150 feet AGL, ADS-B data confirmed the Challenger was still on the runway.
Aftermath & ATC Communications:
• After landing from the second approach, the Southwest crew queried ATC on how the incursion happened.
• ATC advised them to contact approach control for further discussion.
• Ground control reaffirmed that the Challenger 35 had been instructed to hold short of runway 31C.
• The Challenger crew was given a phone number for pilot deviation reporting, indicating a potential enforcement action by the FAA.
Investigation & Initial Findings
• The NTSB announced an official investigation into the runway incursion.
• Key areas under review:
• Why the Challenger 35 crossed runway 31C despite hold-short instructions.
• Communication logs between ATC and the business jet crew.
• Visibility conditions and crew situational awareness.
• Potential ATC coordination issues contributing to the incursion.
Analysis & Safety Recommendations
• Flight crews should remain highly vigilant during final approach and proactively scan for potential incursions, as demonstrated by WN-2504’s quick reaction.
• Strict compliance with ATC instructions must be reinforced among pilots, particularly during taxiing operations at busy airports.
• Runway incursion prevention technologies, such as enhanced surface movement radar (ASDE-X) and Runway Status Lights (RWSL), should be reviewed to determine if additional safeguards are needed at Midway.
• The FAA may consider revising pilot training procedures to emphasize situational awareness and hold-short compliance for business jet operators.
Weather Conditions at the Time (METAR Reports at KMDW)
• Wind: 340° at 11 knots
• Visibility: 10 miles
• Sky Conditions: Few clouds at 25,000 feet, otherwise clear
• Temperature: 9°C (48°F)
• Altimeter: 29.81 inHg
Disclaimer
“This report is based on available information as of 25 February 2025. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, the completeness of the details cannot be guaranteed. If you are the rightful owner of any referenced materials and wish them removed, please email takedown@cockpitking.com.”
