Near Miss Over Venezuela: JetBlue Flight Avoids Collision with US Air Force Tanker
Table of Contents
A harrowing near-collision between a JetBlue commercial airliner and a U.S. Air Force air-to-air refueling tanker over Venezuelan airspace is currently under investigation by U.S. Southern Command. Teh incident, which occurred Monday, involved a JetBlue flight originating from Curaçao that was forced to halt its ascent to avoid a direct impact with the military aircraft.
The close call raises serious questions about flight safety protocols and the increasing complexities of operating near Venezuela, were the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) recently issued a caution to U.S. aircraft due to heightened military activity.
JetBlue Pilot Reports “Outrageous” Lack of Transponder Use
According to a recording of communications, the JetBlue pilot described the situation as nearly a “midair collision.” The pilot stated that the Air Force aircraft “passed directly in our flight path” and was operating at the same altitude. Critically, the Air Force plane’s transponder – a vital device that transmits location details to air traffic controllers – was reportedly switched off.
“They don’t have their transponder turned on, it’s outrageous,” the pilot said. The pilot estimated the distance between the two aircraft as between two and five miles, adding, “We had to stop our climb.” Following the encounter, the Air Force plane reportedly entered Venezuelan airspace.
Air Force Investigates, Cites Safety as Top Priority
The U.S. Air Force confirmed awareness of the incident and stated it is reviewing the matter. A spokesperson emphasized that “Military aircrews are highly trained professionals who operate in accordance with established procedures and applicable airspace requirements.” The spokesperson added, “Safety remains a top priority, and we are working through the appropriate channels to assess the facts surrounding the situation.”
JetBlue confirmed its flight crew reported the incident to airline leadership and pledged full cooperation with any investigation. The passenger plane was en route from Curaçao, an island off the Venezuelan coast, to New York City’s JFK airport.
FAA Warning Highlights Rising Tensions
The near-miss comes after the FAA issued a warning last month advising U.S. aircraft to “exercise caution” when flying in Venezuelan airspace. This advisory cited a “worsening security situation and heightened military activity in or around Venezuela.” The incident underscores the potential risks associated with increased military presence and the importance of adherence to established air traffic control procedures.
The lack of transponder use by the Air Force aircraft is particularly concerning, as it substantially reduces situational awareness for both civilian and military air traffic controllers.This incident will likely prompt a review of protocols and a renewed emphasis on communication and coordination in the region.
Why did this happen? A JetBlue airliner and a U.S. Air Force tanker came dangerously close to colliding over Venezuelan airspace. The incident was caused by the Air Force tanker reportedly flying without its transponder activated, reducing visibility for air traffic control and the JetBlue pilots.
Who was involved? The incident involved the crew of a JetBlue flight originating from Curaçao, the crew of a U.S. Air Force tanker, and is being investigated by U.S. Southern Command and the Air Force.
what happened? The JetBlue pilot reported the Air Force tanker passed
