Factual Information
On February 16, 2008, at New Chitose Airport, a Boeing 747-400D registered JA8904 (aircraft A) operated by Japan Airlines International as Flight 502 was preparing for takeoff to Tokyo International Airport. Simultaneously, a Douglas MD-90-30 registered JA8020 (aircraft B) operated by the same company as Flight 2503 had landed on runway 01R at approximately 10:29 JST and was taxiing on the runway.
Flight History
At 10:28:40, the local controller instructed aircraft A to line up and wait on runway 01R. The crew acknowledged and entered the runway. At 10:32:30, the controller informed aircraft A to expect immediate takeoff and noted traffic landing roll and inbound traffic. The aircraft A crew acknowledged. Subsequently, at 10:32:54, the engines of aircraft A rapidly increased to takeoff thrust without a takeoff clearance. At 10:32:59, the controller instructed aircraft A to stop immediately, repeating the command and stating traffic landing roll. The crew responded at 10:33:05, and the engine thrust decreased. The ground speed of aircraft A reached a maximum of about 84 knots before decelerating. At 10:33:13, the speed brake was deployed and reverse thrust was applied. The nearest distance between aircraft A and B was approximately 1,800 meters. No injuries were reported among the 446 persons on board aircraft A and the 126 persons on board aircraft B.
ATC and Crew Actions
According to ATC communication records and flight data recorders, the sequence of events was consistent with the controller's instructions and the crew's responses. The controller also instructed a third aircraft (aircraft C) on final approach to go around at 10:33:12. The aircraft C complied with the missed approach procedure.
Investigation
The Japan Transport Safety Board investigated this serious incident, which was classified as an aborted take-off on an engaged runway. The investigation included analysis of flight data and cockpit voice recorders, interviews, and participation by a representative from the United States (NTSB).