While on final approach to runway, Emirates flight EK39 performed a go around, as a safe measure, at Birmingham Airport.
Several people posted on social media today asking why an Airbus A380 was flying that low over South of Birmingham.
Emirates flight EK39 was on final to Birmingham Airport today from Dubai at 12:20 BST when the Airbus A380 (registration A6-EUP) performed a go around, interrupting the approach to runway 33.
The cause was actually a Ryanair aircraft still on the runway at the moment the A380 was about to land.
The Ryanair flight FR3691 to Knock, Ireland was cleared to takeoff but aborted the departure and took time before vacating the runway on taxiway T.
The Emirates flight climbed back to 3,750 feet before being vectored back to BHX Airport and a TUI flight from Ibiza also had to perform a go around.
Emirates stated to AIRLIVE: “Emirates flight EK39 from Dubai to Birmingham on 14 May performed a go around prior to landing as per instructions given by air traffic control. As a standard procedure EK39 circled for re-approach and safely landed 12 minutes later. The safety of our passengers and crew is of utmost importance and will not be compromised.”
A go-around is a proactive safety measure, not a failure
Aircraft perform a go-around (also called a missed approach) when it’s unsafe or unsuitable to continue the landing. This decision can be made by either the pilot or air traffic control (ATC), and it’s a standard, safe procedure, not an emergency.
Here are the main reasons for a go-around:
1. Unstable Approach
- Aircraft is too high, too fast, or not properly aligned with the runway.
- Landing gear or flaps may not be correctly configured in time.
2. Runway Not Clear
- Another aircraft or vehicle is still on the runway.
- ATC detects a potential conflict.
3. Poor Visibility or Weather
- Sudden changes in wind (wind shear or gusts).
- Low visibility below minimums (fog, rain, snow, etc.).
4. Mechanical or System Issue
- Aircraft systems not functioning properly.
- Any warning lights or alerts that require pilot attention.
5. ATC Instruction
- Air traffic control may instruct a go-around due to spacing or unexpected traffic.
6. Obstruction or Wildlife
- Birds, animals, or foreign objects on the runway.
- Unexpected vehicles or personnel.
7. Pilot Decision for Safety
- If the pilot feels something “doesn’t look right.”
- Too fast a touchdown or improper flare.
