Flight Crew Air Transport Pilot (ATP); Flight Crew Multiengine; Flight Crew Instrument
Flight Crew Last 90 Days 213.03; Flight Crew Total 3502.58; Flight Crew Type 2406.13
Communication Breakdown; Workload; Confusion
ATC Issue All Types; Deviation - Track / Heading All Types
Flight Crew Returned To Clearance
Aircraft; Human Factors
[Aircraft X] was assigned the KM 7A approach and descent in to PEK. We were initially assigned Runway 01 ILS. A few minutes later we were instructed to fly from present position direct to KM. Shortly after passing KM we were instructed to change runway again (2nd change) to the ILS-36L. Then; just prior to a left turn on arrival track (LNAV engaged and active) we were yet again given a runway reassignment. This time; we were given instructions; to now again (3rd change); expect runway 01 ILS. Upon installing ILS 01; just prior to a left turn on track; we noticed a map shift to the right of track. The shift was likely less than 1/2 mile. Just as we noted the shift we had come upon the left turn which the aircraft did not make. At the moment we were going to tell Approach Control we had missed the turn and needed a left vector; ATC instructed us to turn left to a 110 heading. He also asked why we had missed the turn...but then immediately switched us to the Final Approach Controller before I could answer his inquiry. Throughout the issue I am reporting; the A/P (Auto Pilot) was engaged/active; and LNAV indicated engaged/active as well. Then; prior to final base segment; (VMC) of the final approach; the Controller asked us if we had a visual with an aircraft ahead; moving from Right to Left. We answered in the affirmative. He instructed us to 'maintain visual contact and 'follow' that aircraft'. Upon turn; it immediately became apparent that the aircraft ahead was flying the ILS to 36L...and we had previously been instructed ILS 01. We immediately resolved that issue after a verbal confirmation that Aircraft X was to fly the 01 ILS...as previously instructed. We landed on Runway 01 without any issue. [Upon] arrival at gate; while no further request was made my ATC; I decided to call ATC Approach Controller to explain what had originally occurred where and why the left turn had not been made. The Ground Controller; after several minutes; was able to give me a telephone number. Thereafter; I spoke to the Controller Supervisor and stated exactly what we saw/experienced... that; for some reason; the FMC did not make our left turn correctly. He seemed to accept my explanation without any further questions.
[Report narrative contained no additional information.]
Air carrier flight crew received several last minute runway changes from ATC. Flight crew made numerous changes to FMS route and aircraft was slow to respond to a left hand turn.