Air Carrier departing from SFO on an assigned 040 heading reported confusion regarding ATC's instructions involving them and and a missed approach aircraft.
Synopsis
Air Carrier departing from SFO on an assigned 040 heading reported confusion regarding ATC's instructions involving them and and a missed approach aircraft.
Narrative
We were Carrier XXX departing SFO. SFO was simultaneously landing and departing on both 28L and 28R. We were given a revised clearance for the SHOR2; (right turn to 040; RADAR vectors) and 15.000 FT. When we were cleared for take off 28L; an airplane was touching down on 28R and other traffic was maneuvering on final for both runways. During the take off roll; we heard Tower query an aircraft on final regarding traffic and instructing them to go around. I do not know the full situation; as we were concentrating on our take off. We lifted off and raised the gear. As we were starting our turn; Tower asked us to confirm we were turning to 040. I replied affirmative. I then thought I heard 'Carrier XXX; fly heading 275; maintain 3;000'. I read this back as the First Officer rolled back to the new heading. I then heard 'Carrier XXX; heading 265'. I read that back and set it. We were scrambling to get the flaps up and level off at 3;000. Tower then asked Company Carrier XYX to confirm what heading he was on. He replied that he had not responded to any calls. Tower gave him 265; and then asked us if we were on a 040 heading. Very alarmed; I replied negative; that we were on the 265 heading and leveling at 3;000: What did they want us to do? Tower instructed us to turn right immediately. They issued additional instructions to Carrier XYX; and then instructed us to fly a heading and continue climbing. We were then turned over to NORCAL. Nothing else was said; and the remainder of the flight was uneventful. Both of us thought we heard our flight number from Tower. I don't know if the error was ours or theirs. The similar call signs were obviously a factor. I don't know what Tower's intentions were; or if we conflicted with the aircraft on the go-around.
Second reporter narrative
As we rotated on take off from 28L; we heard some confusing calls on whether Company Carrier XYX was being sent around from approach on 28R. I waited about 2 seconds longer than normal to start the turn to a 040 heading; wanting to hear clarification. Tower than asked if we were turning to 040; the Captain said yes. Then it sounded like 'Carrier XXX turn to 275 and level 3;000 FT.' Then I heard a call to turn to a 265 heading. After one or two more transmissions; it became clear that the heading was meant for Carrier XYX. Tower then told us to turn 040 and climb to 15;000 as originally cleared.
More incidents for this aircraft family →
Source: NASA Aviation Safety Reporting System (public domain). Reports are voluntary submissions and are not verified by NASA.