Unexpected Mid-Air Encounter
An unexpected and alarming incident occurred when a Delta Connection flight was forced to perform an emergency “go-around” to avoid a potential mid-air collision with a U.S. Air Force B-52 bomber. Flight records have since revealed the details of this close call, which left passengers and crew shaken.
The SkyWest-operated flight, traveling from Minneapolis to Minot in North Dakota, was on its final approach when the pilot spotted the B-52 heading directly towards them. The pilot described the maneuver as “aggressive,” indicating that he had to act quickly to avoid a collision. According to the pilot, the control tower had failed to alert him to the presence of the military aircraft nearby.
A Misunderstanding at Altitude
During a post-flight announcement, the pilot explained that he initially mistook the massive B-52 for a smaller plane. It wasn’t until he realized the bomber was moving at a high speed toward their flight path that he took action. The pilot expressed his surprise and frustration, stating, “This is not normal at all. I don’t know why they didn’t give us a heads-up.”
Minot’s control tower operates without radar, relying solely on visual observation. This lack of advanced technology may have contributed to the oversight. The pilot mentioned that the tower had directed him to turn right when he encountered the B-52. However, he determined that the safest course of action was to execute a turn behind the bomber and abort the landing.
A Sharp Turn and Second Attempt
Aviation tracking data has confirmed that the SkyWest flight executed a sharp rightward turn during its approach into Minot. The plane then gained altitude as it circled around before attempting to land again. This second attempt ultimately resulted in a safe landing.
The B-52 was conducting a display flight over the North Dakota State Fair in Minot, which is home to a major air force installation. This context adds to the concern, as such events often involve heightened air traffic activity.
Passenger Reactions and Aftermath
Monica Green, a passenger who filmed the pilot’s announcement, shared her feelings of anxiety following the incident. She described how the aircraft banked so sharply that she could only see the ground through her window. “I just remember the plane going, like, sideways,” she told NBC News. Her experience left her feeling “sick to my stomach” and apprehensive about future flights.
Despite the tension, some passengers applauded the pilot’s quick response. He later said, “It was not a fun day at work. Have a nice evening, and I’m glad you are safe.”
Ongoing Investigations
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has launched an investigation into the incident. Meanwhile, U.S. Air Force representatives have stated that they are “currently looking into the matter.” SkyWest, the airline operating the flight, released a statement confirming that the flight landed safely after being cleared for approach by the tower but performed a go-around when another aircraft became visible in their flight path. The company is currently investigating the incident.
Additional In-Flight Incidents
This incident is part of a growing list of in-flight disruptions and safety concerns:
- A Virgin flight descended into chaos after teenagers used fake IDs to buy alcohol and get drunk on board, leading to arrests upon landing.
- A plane was forced to make a U-turn above the Atlantic four hours into its flight after a man allegedly tried to force his way into the cockpit.
- Dozens of passengers were evacuated from a Southwest flight after a phone battery burst into flames.
These incidents highlight the ongoing challenges faced by airlines and aviation authorities in ensuring the safety and comfort of travelers.
