What Happened When a US Passenger Jet Had to Descend to Avoid a Midair Collision?
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Synopsis
In a dramatic incident, a Southwest Airlines flight had to make an emergency descent to avoid a potential midair collision, injuring two flight attendants. Passengers shared their terrifying experiences as the aircraft descended rapidly. Read on for the full account of this alarming event and its implications for aviation safety.
Key Takeaways
- Emergency Descent: The Southwest flight had to descend rapidly to avoid a collision.
- Injuries Reported: Two flight attendants were injured during the incident.
- FAA Investigation: The FAA is currently looking into the circumstances of this event.
- Passenger Reactions: Passengers shared their frightening experiences on social media.
- Safety Concerns: This incident raises ongoing questions about aviation safety protocols.
Los Angeles, July 25 (NationPress) Two flight attendants sustained injuries after a Southwest Airlines flight departing from Southern California was compelled to make an emergency descent to evade a possible midair collision.
The crew of Southwest Flight 1496 reacted to two onboard traffic alerts on Friday afternoon shortly after taking off from Hollywood Burbank Airport. This prompted them to both climb and descend in order to mitigate the risk presented by the alerts. The flight successfully continued on to Las Vegas, landing without further incident, as per a statement from Southwest Airlines.
In the statement, the airline noted, “Southwest is working with the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to further investigate the situation,” adding, “While no injuries were reported among passengers, two flight attendants are receiving medical treatment.”
Passengers aboard the flight took to social media to relay their alarming experiences, as reported by Xinhua news agency.
Comedian Jimmy Dore posted on X, “The pilot had to dive aggressively to avoid a midair collision over Burbank airport. Myself & plenty of people flew out of their seats & bumped heads on the ceiling. A flight attendant needed medical attention.”
He further commented, “The pilot indicated that his collision warning system activated, indicating the need to avoid a plane heading towards us.”
Another passenger shared on X, “People were screaming as the plane dove. A flight attendant is currently being treated with an ice pack on her head.”
This passenger described the episode as a significant error that “almost cost the lives of the 150+ individuals on board.”
Just six minutes after departure from Hollywood Burbank Airport, the flight descended sharply by 475 feet (144.78 meters) from an altitude of 14,100 feet (4,297.68 meters), according to local KABC television, citing data from Flightradar24.
The other aircraft, a Hawker Hunter, was flying at about 14,653 feet (4,466.23 meters) when the Southwest flight began its descent.
The FAA has announced that it is investigating the incident.
This occurrence follows closely on the heels of a separate incident where a US passenger jet had to perform an “aggressive maneuver” to avoid a midair collision with a US Air Force B-52 bomber in North Dakota.
Point of View
It's crucial to highlight the ongoing concerns regarding midair safety as incidents like this remind us of the potential risks involved in air travel. The FAA's proactive investigation underscores the importance of addressing these challenges to ensure passenger safety.
NationPress
26/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What caused the emergency descent of Southwest Flight 1496?
The emergency descent was prompted by two onboard traffic alerts indicating a potential midair collision.
Were there any injuries reported?
Yes, two flight attendants sustained injuries, but no passenger injuries were reported.
Is the FAA investigating the incident?
Yes, the FAA is currently conducting an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident.
What was the flight's destination?
The flight was en route to Las Vegas from Hollywood Burbank Airport.
How did passengers react during the descent?
Passengers reported panic and chaos, with many flying out of their seats during the abrupt descent.
