The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is investigating a near-collision involving Delta Air Lines and United Airlines flights at Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport on January 11, 2025. Despite their dangerously close proximity in the air, both planes landed safely.
Incident Details
- Date and Time: Saturday, January 11, 2025, approximately 11:00 AM.
- Involved Flights:
- Delta Flight DL1070: Airbus A330-300, registration number N820NW, arriving from Detroit with 245 passengers.
- United Flight UA1724: Boeing 737-900, registration number N38891, arriving from San Francisco with 123 passengers and six crew members.
- Proximity:
- Horizontal Distance: 1,217 feet (371 meters).
- Vertical Distance: 875 feet (267 meters).
- Interventions:
- The Traffic Collision Avoidance System (TCAS) automatically triggered corrective maneuvers.
- Air traffic control issued directives to ensure safe landings for both flights.
Context and Recent Incidents
This near-collision is part of a troubling trend of similar incidents in U.S. airspace. To address growing risks like increased air traffic and operator fatigue, the FAA is:
- Expanding training programs for air traffic controllers.
- Hosting safety summits to mitigate runway incursions.
Airline Statements
- Delta Air Lines: “Our crew acted in full compliance with safety protocols during the event.”
- United Airlines: “Our pilots promptly followed automated collision-avoidance system alerts and ensured a safe landing.”
Both airlines are cooperating with the FAA to support the investigation.
Enhanced Safety Measures Under Review
The FAA’s detailed investigation could accelerate revisions to airspace safety policies. New recommendations related to training, procedures, and collision-avoidance technology may emerge as a result.
© AeroHaber.com
Aviation News and Defense Industry news published on our website cannot be used without proper attribution.
