A light aircraft pilot described a traffic conflict at 06C; a busy non-towered airport; that apparently stemmed from a miscommunication on CTAF.

2010-08 · NASA ASRS report 902334

Date: 2010-08 · Aircraft: Small Aircraft; Low Wing; 1 Eng; Fixed Gear · Phase: takeoff

Anomalies: conflict-ground-conflict|less-severe|conflict-airborne-conflict

Synopsis

A light aircraft pilot described a traffic conflict at 06C; a busy non-towered airport; that apparently stemmed from a miscommunication on CTAF.

Narrative

While preparing for departure from 06C Runway 29; I noted air traffic inbound and waited a few minutes for arriving Aircraft #1 (a twin) to land as I completed my run-up and departure preparation. I heard 2 other aircraft entering the pattern during this timeframe. Aircraft #2 turned left base as Aircraft #1 landed. At this time; I heard an aircraft which I had presumed to be Aircraft #2 callout; '[Light aircraft] holding for departure; you can go ahead and depart; we are taking some pictures.' Aircraft #2 had turned final at this point. I estimated that Aircraft #2 was on a 2-mile final. I was planning to hold for this aircraft to land until I received the go-ahead to depart before their arrival. As I announced my departure and began departure roll; someone (I assume Aircraft #2) called on radio; 'aircraft on short final.' Based on the previous twin engine aircraft arrival time; I believed that there was adequate time and space between my aircraft and Aircraft #2 for me to take-off safely. Approximately half-way down the runway on take-off; I heard Aircraft #2 announce a go-around and question what I was doing. After I had taken off and crossed the departure end of the runway; Aircraft #2 announce being off of my right wing. My TCAS indicated that the aircraft was 100 FT above me and behind me. Looking off my right wing; I did not see the aircraft. After hearing two aircraft operators complain to each other about my decision to take-off; I apologized and briefly explained the miscommunication and my understanding that I was being given the go-ahead to depart ahead of the arriving aircraft. At this time; I realized that the aircraft giving me the go-ahead to depart ahead of their arrival was Aircraft #3 which had entered the pattern; not the aircraft on final leg. Prevention: While I can appreciate Aircraft #3's suggestion for me to depart ahead of their arrival; it would have helped me understand the actual situation if they had reported their position when they made the suggestion for me to take-off ahead of their arrival. I would have clearly understood what they were suggesting if I had recognized which aircraft was communicating with me. Clear communication among all aircraft operating at uncontrolled airports is essential. 06C is a busy airport underlying Class B Airspace; perhaps; a Control Tower is needed at this airport to help deconflict airspace.

Source: NASA Aviation Safety Reporting System (public domain). Reports are voluntary submissions and are not verified by NASA.

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