USA Near Miss: Delta Pilot Swerves to Dodge B-52 Bomber in Close Call

[webfact]

File photo for reference only

 

Passengers aboard a Delta Connection flight received an unexpected shock as their pilot made an urgent manoeuvre to steer clear of a US Air Force B-52 bomber. The incident, involving SkyWest Flight 3788 from Minneapolis to Minot, left fliers startled yet safely landed, with the pilot offering apologies over the intercom for the abrupt, necessary action.

 

The drama unfolded as the regional jet neared its destination, cleared for approach, only to encounter another aircraft on its flight path. The pilot executed a swift turn to avoid the B-52, a decision made without prior warning from the air traffic control. Passengers felt the plane veer sharply, prompting immediate apologies from the cockpit.

 

Audio from the event captures the pilot explaining his quick reaction upon spotting the B-52 unexpectedly, remarking on its significantly higher speed. Despite the surprise, his decision to turn behind the fast-approaching bomber ensured everyone’s safety. He admitted to passengers that the manoeuvre was unanticipated yet necessary, concluding with thanks for their understanding and earning a round of applause for his transparency.

 

SkyWest Airlines has launched an investigation into the incident, while the Federal Aviation Administration works to compile additional data. Curiously, the FAA lacks a formal report, as the tower involved wasn’t under its domain.

 

Passenger Monica Green shared her surprise, likening the movement to a sudden "U-turn," while appreciating the pilot's clarity post-incident. Her relief echoed the sentiments on board, and travellers took comfort in the pilot’s honesty.

 

The B-52 Stratofortress, famed for its capabilities, is a long-range bomber able to fly at substantial altitudes and speeds, underscoring the pilot's quick judgement. As investigations continue, this close call remains a testament to prudent piloting under unforeseen circumstances.

 

The skill demonstrated during the tense moments over North Dakota is evident even as SkyWest investigates the accident. Both the Pentagon and Delta Air Lines have deferred comments to SkyWest, leaving ongoing queries hanging amid efforts to clarify how such a convergence occurred.

 

All eyes are now on the resultant findings, as industry experts await any lessons that might emerge from what was, thankfully, a safely resolved air scare.

 

  Adapted by ASEAN Now from CNN 2025-07-22

 

 

[Chomper Higgot]

It begs the question, is anyone monitoring US flight path safety?

 

[dinsdale]

2 hours ago, webfact said:

The B-52 Stratofortress, famed for its capabilities, is a long-range bomber able to fly at substantial altitudes and speeds,

Anything that flies at max. sub-sonic speed is not substantial speed.

[TedG]

45 minutes ago, Chomper Higgot said:

It begs the question, is anyone monitoring US flight path safety?

 

Yes....

[JohnOFphon]

1 hour ago, Chomper Higgot said:

It begs the question, is anyone monitoring US flight path safety?

 

trump will take care of it. sign his name in a big black book,,,,all good.