Cathay Pacific Flight Crew Wrong Frequency Causes Loss of Communication and NATO Jet Interception over Romania

A London‑bound Cathay Pacific flight lost contact with Romanian air traffic control after its crew mistakenly selected the wrong radio frequency, according to an investigation report released last month. The error stemmed from a misinterpreted response to ATC instructions, leading to a loss of communication with the local control unit. As a result, a NATO jet intercepted the aircraft while it was over Romanian airspace. The incident prompted a review by Hong Kong’s Civil Aviation Department, which has completed its assessment of the airline’s full investigation report. In a statement issued on Friday, the Hong Kong government expressed “serious concern” over the findings, underscoring the importance of accurate radio communications in international airspace. The event highlights the critical need for stringent adherence to ATC procedures and the potential consequences when pilots deviate from established protocols.