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Delta flight narrowly avoids collision with military B-52

A SkyWest pilot avoided a near-miss with a B-52 while landing in North Dakota.

July 21, 2025 at 12:34 PM
blur Delta regional jet experiences near-miss with military plane over North Dakota

A SkyWest flight narrowly avoids collision with a military B-52 near Minot, prompting investigations.

Pilot's quick thinking prevents disaster near Minot

On Friday, a SkyWest pilot executed a rapid maneuver to avert a collision with a B-52 bomber while approaching Minot Airport in North Dakota. After receiving clearance from air traffic control, the pilot had to perform a sudden go-around when the military aircraft appeared in its flight path. The U.S. Air Force is investigating the incident, particularly since it occurred shortly after a B-52 carried out a flyover during the North Dakota State Fair. Thankfully, Delta Flight 3788 landed safely following the alarming near-miss. In a video shared online, the pilot expressed regret for the incident, highlighting the surprise of encountering the fast-moving military plane. This close call raises concerns about coordination between military and commercial flights in shared airspace.

Key Takeaways

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SkyWest flight narrowly avoids collision with B-52 bomber.
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Pilot conducts go-around maneuver to prevent disaster.
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U.S. Air Force investigating military aircraft operations.
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Incident underscores need for better airspace coordination.
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Passengers were alarmed but land safely after maneuver.
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Previous similar incidents highlight ongoing air safety concerns.

"This is not normal at all. I don't know why they didn't give us a heads up."

The pilot's frustration points to gaps in communication during the incident.

"So, sorry about the aggressive maneuver. It caught me by surprise."

This apology shows the pilot's awareness of the situation's seriousness and his concern for passenger safety.

The incident highlights ongoing challenges in air traffic management, especially concerning the increasing interactions of commercial and military flights. As airspace congestion grows, the risk of such near-misses rises. This specific near-collision contrasts sharply with the tragic accident involving a military helicopter and a passenger plane earlier this year, emphasizing the urgency for improved communication and tracking systems. A proactive approach is needed to prevent future incidents and safeguard passenger safety.

Highlights

  • Quick actions saved passengers from disaster on Delta flight.
  • A pilot's alertness turned a close call into a safe landing.
  • Communication is key in preventing aviation tragedies.
  • A B-52 unexpected in the sky—what went wrong?

Potential risks in airspace management

The incident raises concerns about the safety of air travel, particularly the coordination between military and commercial flights. Such close encounters could lead to serious accidents if not addressed promptly.

The aviation community must remain vigilant to prevent more near-misses.

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