United Pilot and SFO ATC Clash Over Boeing 777's Runway Position After Go-Around
Aviation News Editor & Industry Analyst delivering clear coverage for a worldwide audience.
A United Express CRJ-700 pilot executed a go-around at SFO due to concerns over a Boeing 777's runway position, sparking a sharp disagreement with Air Traffic Control.
Key Takeaways
- •United Express flight UA5899 (CRJ-700) executed a go-around at SFO on January 29, 2026, due to a perceived runway encroachment by a United Boeing 777-200ER.
- •The go-around led to a direct, on-air dispute between the pilot and the SFO Air Traffic Controller, who insisted the departing aircraft was properly positioned.
- •The incident highlights recurring challenges and runway incursion risk SFO associated with the airport's closely spaced parallel runway operations and high traffic volume.
- •The FAA is expected to investigate the communication breakdown and adherence to runway hold short line procedures.
A recent incident at San Francisco International Airport (SFO) has highlighted ongoing tensions between flight crews and air traffic control (ATC) over runway safety protocols. On January 29, 2026, a United Express flight was forced to execute a go-around. This safety maneuver was followed by a sharp, on-air disagreement with the SFO tower controller.
The Go-Around Incident Details
The event involved United Express flight UA5899, operated by SkyWest Airlines using a Bombardier CRJ-700 regional jet. The aircraft was arriving at SFO from Reno-Tahoe International Airport (RNO). During the final approach to one of SFO's parallel runways, the flight crew initiated a go-around. This is a standard procedure when conditions are deemed unsafe for landing.
The pilot reported the reason for the maneuver to the tower. The crew believed a large United Airlines Boeing 777-200ER on the parallel runway, 28R, was positioned too far forward. Specifically, the pilot stated the 777's tail appeared to extend beyond the designated runway hold short line. These markings are critical. They ensure departing aircraft remain clear of the protected area for landing operations on the adjacent runway.
Communication Breakdown and Disagreement
The pilot's assessment immediately drew a firm response from the SFO tower controller. The controller quickly stated that the Boeing 777 was, in fact, properly positioned and not beyond the hold line. The controller then instructed the United Express flight to contact departure control. The regional jet later re-entered the arrival sequence and landed safely.
This exchange between the United pilot and ATC clash is notable. It brings a public focus to the high-stakes environment of air traffic management. The incident, while ending safely, underscores the need for absolute clarity in communication. It also highlights the critical importance of pilot discretion regarding safety.
Systemic Safety Concerns at SFO
This event is not an isolated one at the busy San Francisco hub. SFO's unique, closely spaced parallel runway operations SFO are known to increase the margin for error. The airport's layout and high traffic volume often require complex sequencing. The pilot's decision to perform a go-around is a testament to the industry's strong safety culture. Flight crews are trained to prioritize safety over operational efficiency.
- Pilot Authority: The pilot-in-command has the final authority to abort a landing. This is true even if the controller believes the runway is clear.
- SFO's Layout: The airport's parallel runways are notoriously close. This requires precise traffic management and increases the risk of a runway incursion risk SFO.
- Previous Incidents: A separate, well-publicized incident occurred in May 2023. A different United Airlines flight performed two go-arounds due to inadequate traffic separation. This led to a heated exchange and calls for an official report.
Former commercial pilots and aviation experts have previously called SFO's operational environment challenging. They cite the high tempo and the reliance on voice-based communication as critical safety concerns. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is expected to review the communication tapes. This review will determine if any operational or procedural adjustments are necessary. Such investigations are standard practice following a San Francisco Airport go-around and a controller-pilot dispute. The focus will be on the perceived runway hold short line violation and the controller's response. The goal is to ensure the highest level of aviation safety.
flying.flights provides comprehensive commercial aviation news covering airlines, aircraft, and airports.
From aircraft production to supply chains, commercial aviation manufacturing news is covered at flying.flights/manufacturing.
Written by Ujjwal Sukhwani
Aviation News Editor & Industry Analyst delivering clear coverage for a worldwide audience. Covers flight operations, safety regulations, and market trends with expert analysis.
Visit ProfileYou Might Also Like
Discover more aviation news based on similar topics
FAA Mandates Replacement of Certain Safran PBEs Due to Failure Risk
The FAA has issued an airworthiness directive mandating the replacement of certain Safran PBEs due to a manufacturing flaw that can block oxygen flow.
GCAA Suspends Two Controllers After Loss of Separation Incident in Guyana
Guyana's GCAA has suspended two air traffic controllers after a United and Turpial Airlines flight came within five miles, half the required separation.
American Airlines 737 MAX Shows Bullet Holes After Colombia Flight
Colombian authorities are investigating an American Airlines 737 MAX after bullet holes were found post-flight in Miami, likely from its landing in Medellín.
Air India Sees Technical Incidents Spike Fourfold in January
Air India recorded a fourfold rise in technical incidents to 1.09 per 1,000 flights in January, prompting intensified regulatory scrutiny and new inspections.
AOG Technics Founder Jailed for Global Fake Aircraft Parts Fraud
AOG Technics founder Jose Yrala was jailed for selling 60,000 fake jet-engine parts, causing nearly £40 million in damages to the global airline industry.
Airlines Resume Puerto Vallarta Flights as Jalisco Security Stabilizes
Mexican authorities report Jalisco security has stabilized, allowing airlines to resume flights to Puerto Vallarta and Guadalajara after cartel violence.