LeadStory

Why was the fighter jet so close to the Southwest plane?

Asked 12 hours ago

Answer

The fighter jet was close to the Southwest plane because it was descending nearby at over 500 miles an hour, prompting the Southwest pilots to receive collision alerts and take evasive action.

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CBS America

Southwest flight makes aggressive maneuver to avoid collision

CBS America ยท Recent
CBS America
CBS America
Recent
  • Southwest Flight 1496 received two collision alerts shortly after departing Burbank Airport. 10s
  • The aircraft executed rapid altitude changes to avoid a descending former Swiss Air Force fighter jet. 52s
  • Preliminary data showed the planes were separated by about 400 feet vertically and five miles horizontally. 1m 3s
  • Two flight attendants were treated for injuries, and at least one person was hospitalized. 2m 0s
  • The FAA is also investigating a similar close call involving a B-52 bomber and a Delta Connection jet. 2m 15s
Aviation

References

Southwest flight makes aggressive maneuver to avoid collision
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CBS America
13 hours ago
Southwest flight makes aggressive maneuver to avoid collision

The Southwest pilots received two alerts from the collision avoidance system due to a descending fighter jet nearby, requiring immediate evasive maneuvers.

Southwest flight makes aggressive maneuver to avoid collision
Icon
CBS America
13 hours ago
Southwest flight makes aggressive maneuver to avoid collision

Preliminary data shows the two planes were separated by about 400 feet vertically and five miles horizontally when the alarm sounded.

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