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Importantly, the absence of a required read-back—the process wherein pilots consciously confirm ATC clearance—gives credence to the notion that miscommunication occurred. While it remains uncertain if the phrase "cleared to cross" was misheard as "cleared for takeoff," this communication shortcut could have led to the vast misunderstanding that nearly culminated in tragedy.
A Cultural Shift Needed at Emirates Airlines
Underlying this particular incident is a broader implication regarding Emirates Airlines' safety culture and training methods. With multiple close calls reported in recent years, it raises an alarm over the safety practices within their flight operations.