SkyWest Flight’s Close Call with B-52 Bomber Near Minot

SkyWest Flight Emergency Maneuver

News Summary

SkyWest Flight 3788 experienced a near collision with a B-52 bomber during its approach to Minot International Airport. The pilot conducted an emergency ‘go-around’ maneuver after realizing the military aircraft was in the area, raising concerns about communication protocols between civilian and military air traffic control. Passengers experienced sudden disorientation but remained calm. The FAA has launched an investigation into the incident as it highlights the ongoing need for improved safety measures in shared airspace.

SkyWest Flight’s Close Call with B-52 Bomber Near Minot Sparks Investigation

In a rather *dramatic turn of events*, SkyWest Flight 3788 had to perform an emergency maneuver to avoid a collision with a B-52 bomber near Minot, North Dakota. This incident unfolded on a typical Friday, turning what would have been just another day at the airport into a matter of serious concern.

The Incident Unfolds

SkyWest Flight 3788, which operates as a Delta connection between Minneapolis and Minot, was making its approach to Minot International Airport when the pilot was forced to perform a *”go-around”* maneuver. This means that instead of landing, the pilot decided to circle back and gain altitude. The initial clearance for landing had already been given by the tower at the airport, making this sudden maneuver all the more urgent.

The B-52 bomber was in the vicinity, executing a planned flyover for the North Dakota State Fair. The Air Force had coordinated this maneuver with air traffic control prior to the event, ensuring that proper protocols were followed. However, it appears that the pilot of SkyWest Flight 3788 was not aware of the B-52’s presence, which raised several eyebrows.

An Unexpected Surprise

According to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), the air traffic services at Minot International Airport are provided by a private company. These controllers boast the same level of training and qualifications as FAA personnel. However, the pilot was caught off guard and stated that he had received no heads-up regarding the military aircraft flying nearby. This lack of communication has sparked questions about safety protocols and coordination between military and civilian air operations.

As the incident unfolded, the flight data indicated a sharp right turn as the pilot skillfully maneuvered to avoid what could have been a serious accident. Passengers like Monica Green on board experienced sudden disorientation but maintained their calm amid the confusion. For her, it was an unexpected twist to an otherwise uneventful flight.

Lessons Learned

Following the close call, the FAA has launched an investigation to determine what went wrong. This comes on the heels of increased scrutiny in light of a recent collision involving an Army Black Hawk helicopter and a passenger jet earlier in the year. While this specific incident did not involve a collision, it does raise concerns about the effectiveness of communication between military and civilian air traffic control.

The Air Force confirmed that the B-52 crew had communicated their flyover plans throughout the situation. They had been instructed to proceed two miles west for a holding pattern after their flyover was completed. However, the timing of this maneuver clashed with the SkyWest flight’s descent, ultimately leading to the *nail-biting encounter*.

What’s Next?

The pilot of SkyWest Flight 3788 expressed concerns, making it clear that incidents like this are not the norm in commercial aviation, asking why the crew hadn’t been timely informed about the B-52’s operation. As the FAA dives deeper into its investigation, changes may arise in how military and civilian aircraft share airspace, aiming to prevent such close calls in the future.

For now, the incident serves as a reminder of the *vigilance required* in aviation safety. As officials review the data and statements, hopefully, lessons will be learned that could further enhance the safety of air travel for everyone involved.