Sequence & Resolution
Event Date04/30/2026
Level
Serious Incident
CategoryRunway Incursion
Flight PhaseTakeoff
Technical Issue DetailsOn April 30, 2026, Azul Linhas Aéreas flight AD6408 (an Embraer E195-E2, registration PS-ADE) was cleared for takeoff from runway 17R at São Paulo Congonhas Airport. However, the takeoff roll did not begin until about 50 seconds after the clearance. Concurrently, GOL flight G31629 (a Boeing 737-800, registration PR-GXN) was on short final approach to the same runway. Recognizing the rapidly decreasing separation, air traffic control instructed the Azul crew to cancel their takeoff and directed the GOL flight to perform a go-around. While the GOL Boeing initiated a go-around, the Azul Embraer continued its takeoff roll despite a second instruction to stop, to which the crew did not reply. The controller then directed the GOL aircraft to turn right to separate the two flight paths. The GOL crew reported receiving a TCAS resolution advisory during the encounter.
Outcome / HandlingAccording to ADS-B data, separation between the two aircraft decreased to a minimum of 200 feet vertically and 0.14 nautical miles horizontally. The departing Azul Embraer reportedly left the tower frequency before takeoff was completed. The GOL Boeing 737 repositioned for another approach and landed safely on runway 17R approximately 15 minutes after the go-around. The Azul Embraer proceeded to its destination in Belo Horizonte without further incident.
Current StatusBoth flights completed their journeys safely, and both aircraft returned to normal operations.
Flight Information
Flight NumberAD6408
Departure Runway17R (CGH)
Involved AirlineGOL
Involved FlightG31629
Involved AircraftPR-GXN