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Were they told to use another runway and went this one by mistake? I wonder if there was anything unique about today's departure. If not then they've probably taken off from there before and would be aware of a change in runway assignments or their clearance.

Yes, they were assigned runwayd 26? It's the longer runway.

As far as commercial pilots go, it is my understanding that they are not supposed to land or take off from an airport that they have not landed or taken off from before. Usually, they have to go in with a check pilot who will make sure that they are familiar with the airport and any unique conditions or restricted areas. In addition to the departure, I haven't seen anything that indicates this was anything but a routine departure.

FWIW, I think there are several who are culpable. I frankly think too many folks were not fully awake to catch the obvious error - both in the cockpit and in the tower.

There are so many checks and double-checks that you wonder how it is even possible.

I knew I had a good reason for avoiding those 6 a.m. flights they always try to push your toward on these discount sites. Truth is, I just don't want to get up that early. Heck, with all the passenger screening now, you've got to wake up the night before just to catch a 6 a.m. flight.