Passenger Jet Avoids Collision with B-52 Bomber Over North Dakota

A commercial passenger jet narrowly avoided a mid-air collision with a B-52 bomber over North Dakota. The incident involved Delta Flight 3788, operated by SkyWest, which was approaching the city of Minot after departing from Minneapolis. The pilot’s recorded audio revealed that an “aggressive manoeuvre” was necessary to evade the military aircraft.

The close call occurred on March 15, 2024, and has raised significant concerns regarding air traffic safety. Following the incident, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) confirmed that they are investigating the circumstances surrounding the event. According to preliminary reports, the passenger jet was at approximately 3,000 feet when the military bomber approached from a nearby airbase.

Witnesses reported seeing the jet make a sharp turn to avoid the bomber. The pilot’s quick response likely prevented a serious disaster. The audio recording of the cockpit exchange highlights the tension of the situation, as the pilot alerted the crew to the impending danger and executed the necessary manoeuvre to ensure the safety of everyone on board.

The FAA has emphasized that both military and civilian air traffic must adhere to strict communication protocols to prevent such incidents. This event serves as a reminder of the complexities involved in managing airspace, especially in regions with military operations.

In response to the incident, aviation experts are calling for enhanced coordination between military and commercial flights. They stress the importance of real-time data sharing to prevent future close calls. Air traffic control systems play a crucial role in maintaining safe distances between aircraft, and improvements in technology could further enhance these protections.

As investigations continue, passengers on Delta Flight 3788 expressed relief that the situation did not result in an accident. They praised the flight crew for their professionalism and quick thinking. This incident has sparked discussions about the need for greater awareness and adherence to safety protocols in all aspects of aviation.

While the FAA has not released specific details about the bomber’s flight path, it is known that B-52 bombers are often deployed for training exercises. Such exercises are a routine part of military operations, but incidents like this underscore the necessity for clear communication and coordination between military and civilian aviation sectors.

The aviation community remains vigilant as they await further findings from the FAA’s investigation. In the meantime, this close call serves as a critical reminder of the importance of safety measures in the skies.