What happened
A Boeing 737 was cleared for takeoff on runway 18L at the Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport. Simultaneously, another Boeing 737 had landed on runway 18R and exited via the high-speed taxiway Whiskey Mike. The second aircraft was subsequently cleared to cross runway 18L.
The crews of both aircraft identified a potential collision and performed evasive maneuvers. Following the incident, the taxiing aircraft proceeded to its gate and passengers deplaned. The departing aircraft continued its takeoff roll, then returned to the airport to land safely.
The investigation
An examination of the departing aircraft revealed damage to the skin on the underside of the tail.
The investigation into the air traffic control environment at the time of the incursion found that the ground control west one and local west one positions in the West air traffic control tower were combined. The supervisor-in-charge was managing the flight data position while simultaneously performing supervisory duties. Additionally, a representative from the National Air Traffic Controllers Association was present in the tower cab for a meeting with the supervisor-in-charge.
Findings
During an interview, the controller involved reported that he did not scan runway 18L prior to issuing the clearance for the taxiing aircraft to cross the runway. This action deviated from FAA Order 7110.65, which mandates that local controllers maintain primary responsibility for active runways and must visually scan runways to the maximum extent possible.