Unauthorized Aircraft Near San Diego Airport: Pilot Deviation Incident

Incident Overview

• ⚠️ An unauthorized aircraft was observed near San Diego Airport, prompting a pilot deviation alert.
• ✈️ The incident involved a Southwest Airlines flight (callsign Southwest 2872) that was cleared for takeoff but then instructed to cancel clearance and turn right.

Air Traffic Control Communication

• 🗣️ Air traffic control issued instructions for Southwest 2872 to line up and wait, then later to contact departure.
• 🔄 The flight crew requested to cancel takeoff clearance and was instructed to turn right at Charlie 3, but they confirmed turning right at Charlie 4.
• ❓ A subsequent communication indicated that the unauthorized traffic had passed through the departure quarter at 500 ft, one mile off the departure end.

Southwest 2872's Actions

• ⏱️ Southwest 2872 requested a few minutes for checklist procedures while taxiing.
• 🚗 The flight was instructed to taxi eastbound on Charlie, make a left on Hotel, and a quick right on Juliet, with a vehicle noted nearby.

Other Traffic and Clearances

• 🛬 Other aircraft, such as 146 Quebec and 413 Whiskey Tango, were also communicating with tower and departure control.
• 🤝 Visual separation was maintained between aircraft, and clearances for airspace were issued and confirmed.