The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has launched an investigation into a dramatic mid-air manoeuvre by a Southwest Airlines flight that dropped sharply shortly after takeoff from Hollywood Burbank Airport on Friday.
Flight 1496, bound for Las Vegas, descended rapidly within minutes of departure, reportedly lifting passengers out of their seats and injuring two flight attendants.
The airline later confirmed that the incident was prompted by two onboard traffic collision avoidance alerts that forced the aircraft to climb and descend suddenly.
Southwest Airlines said that their crew responded to the alerts, which required them to take evasive action to avoid a potential collision.
Southwest Airlines emphasised that safety is their top priority, and they appreciate the professionalism of their flight crew and flight attendants in responding to the incident.
The airline said that nothing was more important to them than the safety of their customers and employees.
According to a CNN report citing flight tracking data, the Boeing 737 came dangerously close to a privately owned Hawker Hunter fighter jet, which crossed less than two miles ahead and within a few hundred feet of its altitude.
The vintage military aircraft had reportedly departed El Paso, Texas, and was en route to Oxnard, California.
Passengers recounted the terrifying moment, with some describing the cabin erupting in applause after the plane landed safely in Las Vegas.
Stand-up comedian Jimmy Dore, who was onboard, posted on X: “Pilot said his collision warning went off & he needed to avoid plane coming at us.
Wow. A flight attendant needed medical attention.” Fellow passenger Stef Zamorano said the incident was a harrowing experience, while Caitlin Burdi described it as “terrifying.”
The FAA confirmed that it is investigating the incident and reiterated its commitment to safety.
The near-miss comes just days after another aircraft, a Delta regional flight was forced to make a sudden evasive manoeuvre to avoid a U.S. military bomber near Minneapolis, adding to growing concerns over close calls in American airspace.
The incident highlights the importance of air traffic control and the need for vigilance in ensuring the safety of air travel.
