Gulfstream commenced takeoff on taxiway A in Brisbane!

[Philip Argy]

Another example of fatigue and authority gradient combining to produce an unacceptable outcome: http://www.atsb.gov.au/media/807517/ao2007064.pdf

I'd have expected the findings and recommendations to be a little more strident in this case. Perhaps intersection takeoff clearances should not be issued at night to pilots unfamiliar with an airport?

[Nigel C]

An impractical and a somewhat knee-jerk overkill suggestion one would think.

[David Knudsen]

From memory this aircraft had Elton John onboard.

[Nigel C]

I thought Elton used the HB-IBQ(?) Falcon 900? Happy to be corrected.

[David Knudsen]

This photo from Simon C taken on the day of the incident also notes it as Sir Elton's preferred mode of transport;

http://www.jetphotos.net/viewphoto.php?id=6117355

But this wouldn't be the first time two blokes from Brisbane had the wrong info!