SkyWest Flight 3788 avoided a potential midair collision during its approach to Minot, North Dakota, prompting applause from relieved passengers in a dramatic episode that highlighted air traffic safety concerns.
SkyWest Flight's Dramatic Landing: Narrow Escape from Collision
SkyWest Flight's Dramatic Landing: Narrow Escape from Collision
Passengers Applaud Pilots After Aggressive Maneuver to Avoid Military Aircraft
In a close call over North Dakota, SkyWest Airlines Flight 3788 narrowly avoided disaster on Friday when the pilot executed an “aggressive maneuver” to miss a military aircraft during landing. The incident occurred as the plane was approaching Minot International Airport from Minneapolis. According to passenger Monica Green, who sat towards the front of the aircraft, the landing was abruptly aborted when the aircraft veered sharply to the right, much to the surprise of the flyers aboard.
After safely landing, the pilot addressed the passengers, revealing that air traffic control had instructed him to turn right; however, upon seeing another plane on a converging course, he had to make a rapid decision to veer behind it. “Sorry about the aggressive maneuver,” the pilot explained in a casual tone, as laughter and applause erupted from passengers. “It caught me by surprise. This is not normal at all,” he added, referring to the unusual circumstances that led to the evasive action.
Passengers recounted how much of a shock the maneuver was, with Green mentioning in a text to her husband that the plane had felt like it was circling unexpectedly. Once the plane touched down safely, the atmosphere remained calm yet tense as the flight history unfolded.
The incident raises pointed questions about air traffic safety and coordination, especially in busy regions where military and civilian flights might intersect. Following the incident, a wave of discourse around airport safety protocols and pilot instruction has surged, shedding light on an issue that keeps passengers and airlines alike on edge.
SkyWest Airlines confirmed the occurrence and expressed regret over the incident, emphasizing ongoing dedication to passenger safety. As investigations unfold, this event reiterates the paramount importance of vigilance and readiness in preventing aviation hazards.
After safely landing, the pilot addressed the passengers, revealing that air traffic control had instructed him to turn right; however, upon seeing another plane on a converging course, he had to make a rapid decision to veer behind it. “Sorry about the aggressive maneuver,” the pilot explained in a casual tone, as laughter and applause erupted from passengers. “It caught me by surprise. This is not normal at all,” he added, referring to the unusual circumstances that led to the evasive action.
Passengers recounted how much of a shock the maneuver was, with Green mentioning in a text to her husband that the plane had felt like it was circling unexpectedly. Once the plane touched down safely, the atmosphere remained calm yet tense as the flight history unfolded.
The incident raises pointed questions about air traffic safety and coordination, especially in busy regions where military and civilian flights might intersect. Following the incident, a wave of discourse around airport safety protocols and pilot instruction has surged, shedding light on an issue that keeps passengers and airlines alike on edge.
SkyWest Airlines confirmed the occurrence and expressed regret over the incident, emphasizing ongoing dedication to passenger safety. As investigations unfold, this event reiterates the paramount importance of vigilance and readiness in preventing aviation hazards.
