Delta Flight Makes Evasive Maneuver to Avoid B-52 in Near-Miss Incident
A Delta Connection flight operated by SkyWest experienced a near-miss with a U.S. Air Force B-52 bomber on July 18, 2025, while approaching Minot International Airport (MOT) in North Dakota. The pilot of the regional jet, SkyWest flight 3788, traveling from Minneapolis-Saint Paul (MSP), was forced to execute what he described as an "aggressive maneuver" to avoid a potential mid-air collision.
Pilot's Account Highlights Lack of Warning
According to the pilot, air traffic control (ATC) provided no prior warning about the presence of the B-52 bomber. The pilot expressed his surprise and concern, noting that such incidents are highly unusual, especially considering that Minot Air Force Base is equipped with radar capabilities. The pilot's statement suggests a potential lapse in communication or radar coverage, which is now under investigation.
Passengers Witnessed Close Encounter with B-52
Passengers aboard the Delta Connection flight reported witnessing the B-52 bomber in close proximity to their aircraft. Passengers on the right side of the plane had a clear view of the large military aircraft, causing considerable anxiety. One passenger described the initial atmosphere as "weirdly calm," but admitted to feeling internal panic when the pilot's tone conveyed the seriousness of the situation.
Pilot Apologized to Passengers After Safe Landing
Following the safe landing at Minot International Airport, the pilot addressed the passengers via the public address system. He apologized for the abrupt maneuver, explaining the unexpected encounter with the B-52 bomber. Audio of the pilot's address has since gone viral on social media, further amplifying public concern regarding the incident.
SkyWest Flight Executed Go-Around Procedure
The Delta regional jet performed a go-around maneuver after receiving clearance for approach. The pilot initiated the go-around when the B-52 became visible in their flight path, preventing what could have been a catastrophic collision.
Investigations Launched by SkyWest and U.S. Air Force
SkyWest, the operator of the Delta Connection flight, has confirmed that it has launched an investigation into the near-miss incident. The U.S. Air Force has also acknowledged the incident and is conducting its own investigation, with a particular focus on operations near Minot Air Force Base.
Key Dates in the Investigation
The near-miss occurred on **July 18, 2025**, as Delta regional flight 3788 approached Minot International Airport. By **July 20, 2025**, news reports began to surface, detailing the pilot's account and SkyWest's statement. The U.S. Air Force also confirmed their awareness of the incident and the commencement of an investigation on this date.
Key Stakeholders Involved
Several key stakeholders are involved in this incident:
- **Delta Connection Flight 3788 (operated by SkyWest):** The commercial aircraft involved, carrying passengers from Minneapolis to Minot, North Dakota. The pilot and passengers are key stakeholders.
- **U.S. Air Force B-52 Bomber:** The military aircraft involved in the near-miss.
- **Minot Air Force Base:** The home of the B-52 bombers in question, located near Minot International Airport.
- **Air Traffic Control (ATC):** Responsible for managing air traffic and preventing collisions. The pilot's statement highlights a potential breakdown in communication or radar coverage from ATC.
- **SkyWest:** The regional airline operating the Delta Connection flight, currently investigating the incident.
- **U.S. Air Force:** Investigating the circumstances surrounding the B-52's operations.
- **Federal Aviation Administration (FAA):** Expected to be involved in the investigation of airspace safety protocols.
Statements from Key Sources
Statements from reliable sources provide further insight into the incident:
- **SkyWest Spokesperson:** "SkyWest flight 3788, operating as Delta Connection from Minneapolis, Minnesota to Minot, North Dakota, 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."
- **Delta Pilot (audio recording):** "Given his speed I don't know how fast they were going, but they were a lot faster than us. I felt it was the safest thing to do to turn behind it. So 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."
- **Air Force Spokeswoman (July 20, 2025, to ABC News):** "Recent reports of Air Force and commercial aircraft operating in the vicinity of Minot International Airport are something we are aware of. We're investigating the situation right now. We can confirm that a B-52 aircraft assigned to Minot AFB conducted a flypast of the North Dakota State Fair Friday evening."
Controversy and Public Reaction
The primary point of contention surrounds the apparent failure of air traffic control to provide adequate warning regarding the B-52's presence, especially considering the proximity of a military airbase with radar capabilities. The incident has sparked considerable public concern, fueled by the pilot's candid audio explanation that went viral. Passengers have expressed apprehension, and there is a widespread demand for greater transparency and accountability in air safety protocols.
Potential Outcomes and Consequences
The ongoing investigations by SkyWest and the Air Force are expected to identify the underlying causes of the communication breakdown or procedural lapse. Potential consequences of the investigations may include:
- Revisions in air traffic control procedures, particularly in areas with mixed military and civilian air traffic.
- Increased emphasis on real-time communication between military and civilian air traffic controllers.
- Potential disciplinary action if human error or negligence is identified.
- A review of radar capabilities and their utilization in busy airspace near military installations.
- Broader discussions about air safety and the prevention of near-miss incidents.
