What happened
Following a brief delay at the gate caused by cargo issues, the crew of a Boeag 737 prepared for departure. According to the captain, the ATIS indicated that departures were utilizing runway 34R, either using the full length or from the intersection at taxiway Q. The ground controller issued clearance to taxi the aircraft to runway 34R at taxiway Q.
During the taxi phase, the first officer was engaged in communications with dispatch and completing necessary flight paperwork, while the captain managed the taxi and air traffic control communications. As the aircraft approached taxiway Q, the crew received an amended flight release.
Upon switching to the local control frequency, the captain heard the local controller issue a clearance to taxi into position and hold on runway 34C. The captain read back this clearance, specifically stating "runway 34 center." As the first officer continued preflight activities, the local controller cleared the flight for takeoff from runway 34C, noting existing traffic on short final. The captain repeated the takeoff clearance for runway "34 center." However, the captain proceeded to line up the aircraft on the 34R centerline and transferred control to the first officer. The aircraft departed without further incident.
Findings
The local controller observed the aircraft departing on runway 34C but did not issue an abort order because no potential traffic conflicts were identified.