Originally Posted by
henners
A questions for Heathrow Tower, if I may?
I've had almost all of my LHR go-arounds when landing on 9L. Is there a reason why go-arounds are likelier on 9L than on 27L/27R, or is it just sheer chance?
Loving having you on the board - I find your posts fascinating.
henners
To be honest, I don't think there is a particular difference. However, you have piqued my interest, so I will find out!!!
If you look at the Official aerodrome chart....
http://www.ead.eurocontrol.int/pamsl..._2_EGLL_2-1_en
.....the exits on 09L are not as suitable in certain conditions than the two westerly runways. In 5kt headwinds or more, Mediums (A321/20/19 series, B737 series) can usually exit at A9W with no problem. However, as you can see on the chart, if an aircraft tries to make it off there, but is going just slightly too fast, has either a sharp turn to come off at A9E, which would be very slow, or try and keep as much speed as possible to come off at A8, neither of which might be quick enough to ensure a landing clearance.
So if there is a slightly increased chance on 09L, that's probably why!