Large Transport
Flight Crew Air Transport Pilot (ATP)
Flight Crew Last 90 Days 73
Communication Breakdown; Confusion
ATC Issue All Types
Air Traffic Control Separated Traffic; Flight Crew Became Reoriented
Procedure
On a 5 mile final approach to runway 22 at MHLM and at 3000 feet MSL; I noticed Aircraft Y also joining final to the same runway from the opposite side and descending to 4000 feet. Aircraft Y joined approximately 50 to 100 yards in front of us to the same runway. Two calls to ATC asking what was going on with the traffic went unanswered. At 3000 feet in mountainous terrain we had very few options if the Aircraft Y continued to descend on final. Eventually Aircraft Y executed a 360 degree turn to the right and a descent to join final behind us. They landed shortly after we cleared the runway. Never seen anything like this in 30 years. Very disconcerting.
Air carrier Captain on approach; at 3000 feet; to Runway 22 at MHLM noticed another aircraft join final directly above at 4000 feet. Inquires to ATC went unanswered but eventually the aircraft turned out bound and rejoined final behind them.