JetBlue Flight from Curacao Avoids Midair Collision with US Air Force Tanker

A JetBlue flight from Curacao to New York City narrowly avoided a midair collision with a US Air Force refuelling tanker. The pilot reported the military aircraft crossed their path without a transponder, raising safety concerns.

A JetBlue flight departing from Curacao had to abruptly stop its climb on Friday to avoid a collision with a US Air Force refuelling tanker. The pilot of the JetBlue aircraft accused the military plane of crossing its path. "We almost had a midair collision up here," the pilot stated in a conversation with air traffic control, noting that the military plane's transponder was off.

The incident involved JetBlue Flight 1112, which was travelling from Curacao, near Venezuela, to New York City's JFK airport. This event occurred amid increased US military drug interdiction efforts in the Caribbean and heightened pressure on Venezuela's government. The pilot reported that the Air Force plane came within two to three miles of their aircraft at the same altitude.

JetBlue's Response and Investigation

Derek Dombrowski, a JetBlue spokesperson, confirmed that the incident has been reported to federal authorities. He stated, "We have reported this incident to federal authorities and will participate in any investigation." He also praised the crew for following proper procedures and promptly reporting the situation.

The Pentagon directed inquiries to the Air Force for further comments. However, there was no immediate response from the Air Force regarding this incident. The JetBlue pilot mentioned that after the close encounter, the Air Force tanker proceeded into Venezuelan airspace.

Safety Concerns and Military Activities

The JetBlue pilot expressed concern over the proximity of the military aircraft, stating it passed directly in front of them within five miles. The pilot emphasised that they had to halt their ascent due to this unexpected encounter. The US military's increased presence in the Caribbean is part of efforts to combat drug trafficking and apply pressure on Venezuela.

This incident highlights ongoing safety concerns in airspace management, especially with increased military operations in certain regions. The lack of an active transponder on the military plane raised additional safety issues during this near-miss event.

JetBlue's commitment to safety procedures and prompt reporting underscores their dedication to passenger safety. As investigations proceed, further details may emerge about this close call between commercial and military aircraft.

With inputs from PTI