A routine takeoff at one of the nation’s busiest airports turned tense when a Delta Air Lines flight and military jets had to change course to prevent a potential mid-air collision. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has launched an investigation into the near-miss over Washington, D.C.
A Moment of Uncertainty Over Reagan National
The incident occurred at approximately 3:15 p.m. on Friday at Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport. Delta Air Lines Flight 2983 had just received clearance for takeoff when it encountered an unexpected complication—four incoming U.S. Air Force T-38 Talon jets preparing for a ceremonial flyover at Arlington National Cemetery.
The Delta aircraft’s onboard alert system picked up the presence of another aircraft close by, prompting immediate intervention by air traffic controllers. In response, controllers issued corrective instructions to both the passenger flight and the military aircraft to prevent a dangerous convergence.
A recording of air traffic control communications captured a moment of concern. The Delta pilot, seemingly startled, asked, “Was there an actual aircraft about 500 feet below us as we came off of DCA?”
The FAA Steps In to Investigate
Following the incident, the FAA announced an official investigation to determine how close the two aircraft came to one another and whether proper safety protocols were followed. The agency has not yet disclosed specific details about the minimum separation distance between the planes at the time of the alert.
The FAA maintains strict guidelines for aircraft separation in controlled airspace. Typically, commercial flights and military operations are carefully coordinated to prevent conflicts, particularly in high-density regions such as the D.C. metro area. However, this incident raises questions about air traffic control procedures and potential lapses in communication.
How Did This Happen?
Several factors could have contributed to the close encounter:
- Concurrent Airspace Usage: Reagan National’s proximity to restricted airspace and its heavy traffic volume make coordination crucial.
- Military Operations: The Air Force’s scheduled flyover may have introduced variables not typically encountered in standard commercial aviation routes.
- Onboard Alert Systems: Delta’s aircraft warning system detected the nearby jets, prompting immediate action.
- Human Decision-Making: Air traffic controllers acted swiftly, but investigators will assess whether earlier intervention could have prevented the scare.
A Growing Concern for Air Safety
This incident is the latest in a series of close calls in U.S. airspace in recent months. Aviation safety experts have noted an uptick in near-misses involving commercial and military flights, often due to miscommunication or congested airspace.
The FAA has increased scrutiny on air traffic control operations and pilot training programs to reduce risks. Airlines and federal authorities alike are emphasizing the importance of precision in scheduling and real-time decision-making to maintain the highest safety standards.
While no passengers were harmed and the situation was resolved without further escalation, the near-miss serves as a reminder of the complex challenges involved in managing America’s busy air corridors.
