A Southwest Airlines passenger jet narrowly avoided a catastrophic mid-air collision with a military fighter jet, sparking urgent questions about air traffic control procedures and aviation safety.
The incident occurred at approximately 30,000 feet when the commercial airliner, carrying 143 passengers, came alarmingly close to a US Air Force F-15 Eagle during a routine training exercise.
Heart-Stopping Moments in the Sky
According to aviation authorities, the two aircraft came within 500 feet of each other - a dangerously small separation by aviation standards. The passenger jet's collision avoidance system alerted pilots to take evasive action just seconds before potential impact.
One passenger described the terrifying moment: "We suddenly felt the plane lurch violently to one side. People screamed as drinks and bags went flying. The pilot came on afterward saying we'd avoided another aircraft, but his voice sounded shaken."
Questions Raised Over Airspace Management
The near-miss has prompted an immediate investigation by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). Experts are examining why the military jet entered commercial airspace without proper clearance and why air traffic controllers failed to prevent the situation.
Aviation safety analyst Mark Richardson warned: "This wasn't just a routine incident - we're talking about hundreds of lives that could have been lost in an instant. The military and civilian aviation sectors clearly need better coordination."
The FAA has temporarily restricted military training exercises in the area while the investigation continues. Both Southwest Airlines and the US Air Force have pledged full cooperation with authorities.
