That is why strobes should be on once on the runway. Became more standard after an accident at LAX. Not sure what was said on the radio here but the strobes may have helped prevent a disaster.
I seem to remember that in the US, the FAA recommends that an aircraft lined up on a runway(perhaps only at night) should contact the tower after a certain amount of time with no takeoff clearance. Probably a good idea at any busy airport.