A Southwest Airlines flight narrowly avoided a serious accident at Chicago's Midway International Airport on Tuesday morning. Flight 2504, a Boeing 737-8H4 that had departed from Omaha, Nebraska, had to abruptly abort its landing when a private jet from Flexjet, a Bombardier Challenger 3500, dangerously crossed its path.
Security cameras captured the moment when the Southwest aircraft briefly touched the runway before the pilot skillfully executed a go-around maneuver to prevent a crash. The private jet, en route to Knoxville, Tennessee, encroached on the airspace designated for the commercial flight. Fortunately, there were no injuries among passengers or crew.
After the evasive action, the Southwest plane landed without further incident. A spokesperson for the airline later stated, "The crew adhered to safety procedures, and the flight landed safely." The representative emphasized, "Nothing is more important to Southwest than the safety of our customers and employees."
Recent Aviation Incidents in the U.S.
This close call adds to a series of recent aviation incidents across the United States, affecting both military and civilian sectors. On January 29, a commercial plane and an Army helicopter collided near Washington, D.C., resulting in 67 fatalities. Just days later, on January 31, a medical transport aircraft crashed in Philadelphia, killing six people on board and one on the ground.
Other tragic events include a small passenger plane crash in Alaska on February 7, claiming ten lives, and a February 10 incident at Scottsdale Airport in Arizona, where a private plane collided with another aircraft on the runway, leading to one death and multiple injuries. The U.S. Navy also reported an E/A-18G Growler jet crash in San Diego Bay on February 12, though both crew members ejected and were rescued. Moreover, a Rockwell Commander aircraft crash in Covington, Georgia, on February 15 resulted in two fatalities.
In another incident, two single-engine planes collided mid-flight at Marana Regional Airport in Arizona on February 19, killing at least two people. Additionally, on February 17, a Delta Airlines plane overturned upon landing at Toronto's Pearson International Airport, injuring at least 15, three critically.
FAA Layoffs and Safety Concerns
In light of these incidents, recent headlines have focused on massive layoffs initiated by the Trump administration within the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). This decision has sparked strong reactions from unions, lawmakers, and aviation safety experts, who warn of the risks posed by reducing staff during a critical period.
The union representing FAA employees called the decision "hasty," cautioning that it would increase the workload of an already strained workforce. Those affected include maintenance mechanics, aeronautical information specialists, environmental protection specialists, aviation safety aids, and program management assistants.
Understanding Recent Aviation Challenges in the U.S.
What caused the near miss at Chicago's Midway Airport?
The near miss was caused when a private jet from Flexjet encroached on the airspace of a Southwest Airlines flight, forcing the commercial plane to abort its landing to avoid a collision.
How have recent layoffs at the FAA impacted aviation safety?
The layoffs have raised concerns about increased workloads and potential risks to aviation safety, as they affect various critical roles within the FAA.
What are some of the recent aviation incidents in the U.S.?
Recent incidents include collisions, crashes, and aircraft malfunctions affecting both commercial and military flights, resulting in numerous fatalities and injuries.