In a shocking aviation incident, a U.S. Air Force B-52 bomber narrowly avoided a mid-air collision with a commercial airliner, raising urgent questions about air safety protocols. On July 18, a Sky West Airlines flight operating on behalf of Delta Airlines was forced to maneuver sharply to avoid the massive bomber while approaching Minot International Airport in North Dakota. The close call occurred just as the B-52 was conducting a flyover for the North Dakota State Fair, creating a dangerous scenario that could have ended in catastrophe.
As the Sky West flight prepared to land, air traffic control instructed the pilots to make a right turn due to traffic congestion. However, the crew spotted the B-52 overtaking them, prompting a split-second decision to turn behind the bomber instead. Thankfully, the pilots executed the maneuver safely, landing without further incident. The FAA is now investigating the matter, emphasizing the seriousness of this near-miss.
This incident unfolds against the backdrop of ongoing scrutiny surrounding the December 2024 crash of a J Air Boeing 737-800 in South Korea, which tragically claimed 179 lives. Investigators recently briefed the families of victims, revealing that the left engine was shut down before the crash, raising concerns about the focus on pilot error rather than structural issues like the runway embankment that contributed to the disaster. Strong reactions from victims’ families and airline unions have sparked heated debates about accountability and safety measures in aviation.
With the aviation industry grappling with a surge in air traffic this summer, the combination of these incidents highlights an urgent need for enhanced safety protocols and clearer communication between military and civilian air traffic. As investigations continue, the aviation community remains on high alert, calling for immediate reforms to prevent future tragedies.
