Story perspectives

Near-Miss at Newark Airport: Two Planes Almost Collide

3/20/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Federal authorities are investigating a near-miss incident at Newark Liberty International Airport on March 17, 2023.
An Alaska Airlines Boeing 737 overflew a FedEx Boeing 777 while both were landing on intersecting runways around 8:15 p.m.
An air traffic controller instructed Alaska Airlines Flight 294 to go around as FedEx Flight 721 was cleared for final approach.
Both flights landed safely, with no injuries reported, amid ongoing operational challenges at Newark Airport due to air traffic controller shortages.

History

Historical Context

The establishment of the Air Traffic Control System Command Center in 1982 aimed to improve aviation safety after a series of mid-air collisions. By 2020, the FAA reported a 30% rise in air traffic incidents due to controller shortages. The recent near-miss at Newark Liberty International Airport involving Alaska Airlines and FedEx flights underscores the ongoing challenges in air traffic management and the urgent need for enhanced staffing and technology.

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Story summary

Federal authorities are investigating a near-miss incident at Newark Liberty International Airport on March 17, 2023.
An Alaska Airlines Boeing 737 overflew a FedEx Boeing 777 while both were landing on intersecting runways around 8:15 p.m.
An air traffic controller instructed Alaska Airlines Flight 294 to go around as FedEx Flight 721 was cleared for final approach.
Both flights landed safely, with no injuries reported, amid ongoing operational challenges at Newark Airport due to air traffic controller shortages.

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