Incident Overview
Flight 943 was being vectored for an instrument landing system (ILS) approach to runway 4R with a sidestep maneuver to land on runway 4L, as initially indicated by the Automatic Terminal Information Service (ATIS). However, the ATIS was later amended to include the reopening of runway 4R for landings, but this change was not communicated to Terminal Radar Approach Control (TRACON), and consequently the flight crew was not informed.
Sequence of Events
While Flight 943 was being vectored, another aircraft, a Boeing 727 operating as Federal Express Flight 314, was cleared into position on runway 4L and instructed to hold for takeoff clearance. Runway 4L has a displaced threshold of approximately 740 feet. Flight 943 was subsequently switched to the tower frequency and received a landing clearance for runway 4R. However, the crew did not hear the instruction specifying 'right' and instead lined up and landed on runway 4L.
Contributing Factors
The tower controller did not request a readback or acknowledgment of the landing clearance from Flight 943. The local controller was also performing ground controller duties simultaneously. The crew of Flight 943 did not see Flight 314 on the displaced threshold until they were directly above the aircraft. During the holding period, Flight 314 had only its navigation lights, rotating beacon, and taxi light illuminated.
Aftermath
The incident highlights a breakdown in communication and awareness. No injuries or damage were reported, and the aircraft involved continued their operations. The Federal Express flight was held on the runway during the incursion.