Southwest Jets Narrowly Avoid Midair Collision Near Nashville Airport
Two Southwest Airlines Boeing 737s encountered a near midair collision at Nashville International Airport. This incident occurred on a Saturday, prompting swift evasive actions by both flight crews.
Details of the Incident
Southwest Flight 507, arriving from Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, was landing in challenging gusty winds. Simultaneously, Southwest Flight 1152 was departing from a parallel runway. As Flight 507 approached the runway, it was instructed to abort its landing due to the possibility of a collision.
Collision Alerts and Evasive Maneuvers
Both aircraft triggered cockpit collision alarms known as “resolution advisories.” These alarms warned pilots of their proximity. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) confirmed that air traffic control had unintentionally directed Flight 507 into a path that could intersect with Flight 1152.
- Flight 507 attempted a landing but executed a go-around.
- Flight 1152 continued its departure towards Knoxville.
- The planes came within approximately 500 feet of altitude separation.
Response and Investigation
Following the incident, Southwest Airlines expressed gratitude for the pilots’ professionalism under pressure. A spokesperson stated that safety remains the airline’s utmost priority.
The FAA has launched an investigation to understand the causes of the incident. They are gathering insights from both flights and reviewing air traffic control communications.
Southwest Airlines remains in collaboration with the FAA as the investigation progresses. The safety of passengers and crew is the primary focus in addressing the events that unfolded during the flights.
