2011-12 · NASA ASRS report 982830
An Air Carrier on approach to IAH with weather related radio static did not clearly establish the landing runway assignment. After intercepting the Runway 26L ILS; they realized they were cleared for Runway 26R when ATC questioned their course.
Upon initial contact to Houston Approach we were told to expect ILS 26L. This is the last time either of us can positively recall hearing a runway clearance or assignment. While on a long downwind on the north side of the airport we were switched between COM 1 and COM 2 a few times due to the static in the radios presumably caused by the moderate rain. When COM 1 would become unreadable we would switch to #2 and visa versa. Pilot flying briefed the arrival for ILS 26L. On the final vector to intercept the LOC we both recall hearing; 'turn right heading (blank) and intercept the LOC.' As the needle came alive for 26L; ATC asked if we were in the turn to intercept and that he showed us left of course. This is when we realized he had cleared us for 26R. We acknowledged and ATC gave us a new heading to intercept the 26R LOC. While we don't remember ever getting cleared for the right runway; I'm sure we missed or misheard a call somewhere on downwind. Cause was static over the radios [due to] poor weather; making it difficult to communicate with each other and with ATC. Our error was failure to intercept the proper LOC. Aircraft well south of course for the right side putting us in the approach path for 26L.
[Narrative #2 has no additional information.]
Source: NASA Aviation Safety Reporting System (public domain). Reports are voluntary submissions and are not verified by NASA.
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