Story perspectives

Delta Flight's Near Miss with B-52 Sparks Investigation

7/21/2025

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Summary

Story summary

On July 18, 2025, a Delta Connection flight from Minneapolis to Minot had to make an unexpected go-around to dodge a B-52 bomber that suddenly crossed its path. The pilot, caught off guard, described the maneuver as "aggressive" and expressed regret to passengers. Ongoing investigations by SkyWest and the FAA are shedding light on troubling airspace coordination issues.

History

Historical Context

The 1956 Grand Canyon mid-air collision, which killed 128 people, led to the establishment of the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) in 1958 to improve air traffic control and aviation safety. Recent incidents involving Delta Connection flights underscore ongoing airspace coordination challenges, highlighting the need for enhanced communication and safety measures in increasingly congested airspace, a concern rooted in past aviation tragedies.

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Story summary

On July 18, 2025, a Delta Connection flight from Minneapolis to Minot had to make an unexpected go-around to dodge a B-52 bomber that suddenly crossed its path. The pilot, caught off guard, described the maneuver as "aggressive" and expressed regret to passengers. Ongoing investigations by SkyWest and the FAA are shedding light on troubling airspace coordination issues.

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