Delta Flight Pilot Forced to Take Evasive Action to Avoid B-52 Bomber Near Minot
A SkyWest Airlines pilot operating Delta Flight 3788 from Minneapolis-Saint Paul to Minot, North Dakota, was forced to execute an abrupt maneuver on Friday, July 18, 2025, to avert a potential mid-air collision with a U.S. Air Force B-52 bomber. The incident occurred as the Embraer E175 jet, carrying 76 passengers and four crew members, approached Minot International Airport (MOT).
Pilot's Quick Thinking Prevents Potential Disaster
According to passenger accounts and official statements, the pilot of Flight 3788 took decisive action, performing what has been described as an "aggressive maneuver" involving a sharp turn. This was done to avoid colliding with a B-52 bomber. Following the evasive action, the pilot addressed the passengers, explaining the situation and apologizing for the sudden and unexpected movement.
Pilot Expresses Frustration Over Lack of Communication
In his address to passengers, the pilot voiced his frustration over the incident, stating that such near misses are "not normal at all." He questioned why the flight crew had not received prior notification or a "heads up" regarding the presence of the B-52 bomber, especially considering that Minot Air Force Base is equipped with radar capabilities. The pilot further elaborated that Minot's smaller airport typically relies on visual confirmation for directing flights. He noted that the air traffic control tower had initially instructed the flight to make a right turn, at which point he visually identified the approaching bomber.
Passengers Witness Close Encounter with Military Aircraft
Passengers seated on the right side of the SkyWest aircraft reported witnessing the B-52 bomber at close range. Monica Green, a passenger on board, captured the pilot's explanation in a recording that quickly gained traction on social media. Green described the atmosphere on board as "weirdly calm," despite the abrupt and forceful nature of the evasive maneuver.
Multiple Investigations Launched into Near-Miss Incident
Following the incident, SkyWest Airlines, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), and the U.S. Air Force have all confirmed that they have launched investigations into the near miss. The aim of these investigations is to determine the sequence of events, identify any contributing factors, and implement measures to prevent similar incidents from occurring in the future.
Air Force Confirms B-52 Flyover for Local Event
An Air Force spokesperson confirmed that a B-52 bomber assigned to Minot Air Force Base conducted a flyover of the North Dakota State Fair on the evening of July 18th, the same day as the near miss incident. The flyover adds another layer of complexity to the investigation, as authorities seek to determine whether the bomber's flight path and the timing of the flyover contributed to the near collision.
Details of the Near-Miss Incident
The near-miss occurred on July 18, 2025, when SkyWest Flight 3788, operating as a Delta Connection flight, was on approach to Minot International Airport. Approximately six months prior to this incident, a mid-air collision between an Army helicopter and a jetliner over Washington, D.C., resulted in 67 fatalities. This earlier incident has put a spotlight on the complexities and potential dangers of military and civilian flight interactions.
Key Players and Their Roles
SkyWest Airlines operated Delta Flight 3788, which originated from Minneapolis-Saint Paul International Airport (MSP) and was en route to Minot International Airport (MOT). The U.S. Air Force, specifically Minot Air Force Base, was responsible for the B-52 bomber involved in the incident. Minot International Airport Air Traffic Control, which is managed by a private company, relies on visual confirmation for aircraft separation due to the airport's lack of radar capabilities. The FAA, as the primary regulatory body for civil aviation in the United States, is conducting an investigation into the incident.
Statements from Involved Parties
A SkyWest spokesperson stated that Flight 3788 "landed safely in Minot after being cleared for approach by the tower but performed a go-around when another aircraft became visible in their flight path. We are investigating the incident." An Air Force spokesperson confirmed the B-52 flyover of the North Dakota State Fair and stated that the Air Force is "looking into" the incident. The pilot of Flight 3788 addressed passengers, saying, "Sorry about the aggressive maneuver. It caught me by surprise. This is not normal at all. I don't know why they didn't give us a heads up, because the Air Force base does have radar long story short, it was not fun, but I do apologize for it and thank you for understanding. Not a not a fun day at work."
Fallout and Potential Ramifications
The incident has raised concerns about the coordination between civilian and military air traffic control, particularly in areas where both operate in close proximity. The apparent lack of communication between air traffic control and the Air Force base regarding the B-52's presence has drawn criticism and sparked debate about the safety of airspace management. The near miss has amplified existing concerns about airspace safety, especially in light of the recent fatal collision in Washington D.C., which has led to increased scrutiny of communication and coordination protocols between military and civilian air traffic controllers. The pilot's candid remarks to passengers underscored the perceived lapse in coordination, resonating with the public and highlighting the gravity of the situation.
