Overview

• Southwest Airlines Flight 3278 mistakenly began its takeoff roll on a taxiway instead of the designated runway at Orlando International Airport on March 20, 2025.
• An air traffic controller canceled the takeoff clearance, ensuring the aircraft stopped safely without incident or injuries.
• The Boeing 737-800 was scheduled to fly from Orlando to Albany, New York, and passengers were later accommodated on another flight.
• The FAA and NTSB have launched investigations into the incident, which highlights ongoing concerns about human error and aviation safety in the U.S.
• Southwest Airlines is cooperating with the investigation and emphasized its commitment to customer and employee safety.