Air Premia Boeing 787-9 Pilots Miss Taxi Route at Newark Liberty Airport But Timely ATC Correction Guarantees Safe Departure and Smooth Operations amid Ground Confusion

Published on November 24, 2025

Air Premia was operating a Boeing 787-9 when the pilots had a small case of confusion regarding their taxi routing instructions from ground control. Air Traffic Control had recognized the situation and were able to provide clear instructions to the pilots to safely correct their error and position the aircraft in the correct taxiing position. Thanks to Air Traffic Control’s quick and effective instructions, the flight was able to safely avoid any potential hazards and depart without delay. This situation illustrates the highly effective communication and operational responses that were able to smooth over the operational ground confusion.

A recent incident involving an Air Premia Boeing 787-9 operating flight APZ132 from Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) to Seoul Incheon (ICN) underscores the complexity of ground operations at major airports and the crucial role of air traffic control (ATC) in ensuring smooth and safe operations.

The incident occurred when the aircraft, following standard taxi instructions, was cleared for departure but mistakenly deviated from its assigned taxiway, prompting a swift response from the air traffic control tower. The aircraft had been instructed to cross Runway 11 and continue toward Runway 22R for takeoff. However, after initially acknowledging the clearance, the pilots veered off course and turned onto Taxiway ZA instead of continuing toward the correct runway.

This miscommunication highlighted the challenges of navigating complex taxiways at busy airports like Newark, where multiple taxiways intersect and precise adherence to instructions is crucial. As soon as the deviation was noticed, the tower quickly intervened, halting the aircraft’s movement to prevent any further issues.

A Quick Response From Air Traffic Control Prevented Further Issues

The aircraft, a Boeing 787-9, was initially taxiing on Taxiway R towards the holding point of Runway 22R when the controller cleared the flight to cross Runway 11. The clearance was acknowledged by the flight crew, but shortly afterward, the aircraft made an unexpected turn onto Taxiway ZA. This unplanned deviation caused the ATC tower to intervene promptly.

The tower noticed the aircraft’s change of direction and immediately issued a stop command to prevent any potential runway incursion. Upon halting, the crew reported that they had misread the taxi routing instructions. Following this, the controller provided new taxi instructions to guide the aircraft back on track. The aircraft was directed to Taxiway P and then onto Runway 1, eventually realigning toward the correct taxi route.

Throughout the incident, the controller maintained a calm and composed tone, assuring the crew that such miscommunications are not uncommon in the busy air traffic environment at Newark. The aircraft was repositioned successfully without incident, and the crew received a new takeoff clearance from Runway 22R, with the intensity of the runway lighting increased to assist the crew in identifying the correct path.

Timely Intervention and Effective Communication Ensure Safety

This event underscores the importance of clear and effective communication between air traffic controllers and flight crews, particularly during ground operations at complex airports. Newark Liberty, a major international hub, has dense taxiway configurations with multiple intersecting points, requiring pilots to maintain heightened situational awareness. Even minor miscommunications can lead to potential issues, but as this event shows, timely interventions can prevent more serious consequences.

The incident was resolved without any operational impact on other flights or ground operations at the airport. The quick action by the ATC tower ensured that the flight was safely repositioned, and the aircraft was cleared for departure after the miscommunication was rectified.

Complexities of Ground Operations and Pilot Awareness

Taxiway configurations at large international airports like Newark are intricate, with intersecting paths and multiple holding points for departing aircraft. This complexity requires pilots to stay highly alert and adhere strictly to ATC instructions to prevent taxiway missteps that could lead to runway incursions or delays.

In this case, the aircraft was cleared for takeoff from Runway 22R after the controller had issued a full-length taxi clearance. However, the subsequent deviation onto the wrong taxiway highlights the importance of attention to detail and accurate navigation, particularly when there are multiple ground routes to follow in quick succession. This situation serves as a reminder of the challenges pilots face when navigating busy airports, even with the support of advanced navigation systems and ATC guidance.

The Role of Air Traffic Control in Ensuring Smooth Operations

Air traffic controllers are the unsung heroes of airport operations, often working behind the scenes to manage the safe and efficient movement of aircraft on the ground. In this case, the ATC tower’s quick response and timely intervention prevented the situation from escalating. By issuing clear and prompt corrective instructions, the controller ensured that the flight could safely continue its journey with minimal disruption to the airport’s overall operations.

Moreover, the controller’s calm and reassuring communication style helped maintain the professionalism of the exchange and ensured that the crew remained focused on correcting the error. The incident was resolved quickly, with no impact on the surrounding air traffic.

A Learning Opportunity for Ground Operations and Pilots

While the misstep was minor, it provides valuable insight into the complexities of ground operations at major international airports. For pilots, it serves as a reminder to stay vigilant and fully understand the routing instructions provided by air traffic control. Even the most routine operations can be disrupted if clear communication is not maintained, particularly at busy airports where multiple aircraft are moving simultaneously.

For air traffic controllers, the incident reinforces the importance of being prepared for unexpected deviations and having the systems in place to address such situations swiftly. The event was handled with professionalism, preventing any potential safety hazards and ensuring that the aircraft was able to depart without incident.

Air Premia’s Boeing 787-9 pilots missed their assigned taxi route at Newark Liberty, but timely intervention from air traffic control quickly corrected the deviation, guaranteeing a safe departure and smooth operations despite the initial confusion.

The Air Premia flight APZ132 incident is an example of how quick intervention and effective communication between pilots and air traffic controllers are key to maintaining safety and efficiency in ground operations. Airports like Newark Liberty face significant challenges due to their complex layouts, but with robust procedures and experienced personnel in place, these challenges can be navigated smoothly. Ultimately, this incident reinforces the need for ongoing training, clear communication, and situational awareness in ensuring safe airport operations.