A Southwest Airlines plane and a private jet had a close call at Chicago Midway International Airport on Tuesday morning, as reported by the Federal Aviation Administration. Southwest Flight 2504 from Omaha, Nebraska, had to perform a go-around to avoid a potential incident after a Bombardier Challenger 350 private jet, headed to Knoxville, Tennessee, entered the runway without authorization.
The incident occurred around 8:50 a.m. local time, prompting investigations by the FAA and the National Transportation Safety Board. Air traffic control instructed the private jet to turn left on Runway 4L, cross Runway 31L, and hold short of Runway 31C. However, there was a miscommunication, leading to the Southwest plane's go-around maneuver to prevent a collision.
Passengers on the Southwest flight praised the pilot for remaining calm and handling the situation professionally. The crew followed safety procedures, and the flight landed safely without incident, according to a Southwest spokesperson.
US Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy emphasized the importance of pilots following air traffic controllers' instructions, warning of license repercussions for non-compliance. Flexjet, the company operating the private jet, stated they were aware of the incident and gathering more information.
FlightRadar24 data revealed that the planes came within approximately 2,050 feet of each other before the Southwest plane initiated the go-around. The Southwest plane flew over the private jet at an altitude of 900 feet, about 250 feet above ground after adjustments for pressure and elevation.
Notably, the incident adds to recent safety concerns, including runway incursions investigated by the NTSB involving commercial flights. These incidents ranged from minor infractions to narrowly avoiding collisions, highlighting the importance of adherence to safety protocols in aviation operations.
