Sun. Jul 27th, 2025

A recent incident involving a SkyWest flight and a US Air Force B-52 bomber has raised concerns about air traffic control and safety protocols. On the day of the incident, the SkyWest flight was en route to its destination when it was forced to take evasive action to avoid a collision with the B-52. The near miss occurred near Minot, North Dakota, where the bomber was conducting a training exercise. According to reports, the SkyWest flight crew was alerted to the presence of the B-52 by air traffic control, but the warning came with only seconds to spare. The crew took immediate action, descending the plane to avoid a collision. The incident has sparked an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the near miss, with officials from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the US Air Force working to determine the cause of the incident. The investigation will focus on the actions of the air traffic controllers, as well as the communication protocols in place at the time of the incident. The SkyWest flight was carrying a number of passengers, all of whom were shaken but unharmed by the incident. The B-52 bomber, which is based at Minot Air Force Base, was conducting a routine training exercise at the time of the incident. The US Air Force has stated that the safety of its personnel and the public is its top priority, and that it is cooperating fully with the investigation. The incident has raised concerns about the potential for collisions between military and civilian aircraft, and the need for effective communication and safety protocols to prevent such incidents. The FAA has implemented a number of safety measures in recent years, including the use of advanced radar systems and improved communication protocols. However, the incident highlights the need for continued vigilance and improvement in air traffic control and safety procedures. The investigation into the incident is ongoing, and it is expected to take several weeks to complete. In the meantime, the FAA and the US Air Force are working to implement additional safety measures to prevent similar incidents in the future. The incident has also sparked a review of the safety protocols in place at Minot Air Force Base, where the B-52 bomber is based. The base has a strong safety record, but the incident has highlighted the need for continued attention to safety procedures. The US Air Force has stated that it will do everything in its power to prevent similar incidents in the future, and to ensure the safety of its personnel and the public.

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