A SkyWest Airlines pilot operating a Delta Connection flight executed an emergency maneuver to prevent a potentially devastating collision with a U.S. Air Force B-52 bomber near Minot, North Dakota. The incident, which occurred on Friday during a routine flight from Minneapolis, has sparked concerns about communication protocols between civilian and military aircraft operations.

According to Fox Business, the Embraer E175 jet was approaching Minot International Airport when the pilot had to take sudden evasive action to avoid the military aircraft. The commercial flight was forced to circle the airport multiple times before safely landing with all passengers aboard.

The Federal Aviation Administration has launched an investigation into the near-miss incident, which has raised questions about air traffic coordination between civilian flights and military operations. The close call involved a B-52 Stratofortress from Minot Air Force Base, home to the 5th Bomb Wing and 91st Missile Wing.

Pilot's Swift Response Saves Passenger Aircraft

The pilot's quick thinking and professional handling of the situation prevented what could have been a catastrophic collision in the skies over North Dakota. In audio footage that has since gone viral on social media, the pilot can be heard explaining the situation to passengers with remarkable composure.

"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," the pilot explained to passengers in the recorded message. The pilot's transparency about the situation helped maintain calm among the passengers despite the alarming circumstances.

SkyWest Airlines, operating as Delta Connection, confirmed the incident through an official statement, acknowledging that flight 3788 performed a go-around when another aircraft became visible in their flight path. The airline has joined federal authorities in investigating the circumstances that led to the close encounter.

Passenger Accounts Reveal Tense Moments

Monica Green, who was seated in the front of the aircraft, described an unusually calm atmosphere despite the dramatic maneuver. Her account of the incident provides insight into the passengers' experience during those crucial moments of uncertainty.

The passenger shared that while the turn was notably sharp, the cabin remained surprisingly composed throughout the ordeal. Green specifically praised the pilot's forthright communication style, noting that although he appeared stressed, his detailed explanations helped reassure passengers.

Green's text messages to her husband during the incident reveal the growing anxiety as the aircraft continued circling the airport. The situation became more concerning when her husband confirmed the seriousness of the circumstances.

Military and Civilian Aviation Coordination Questions

The incident has brought attention to the protocols governing civilian and military aircraft operations in shared airspace. The presence of Minot Air Force Base in the area adds complexity to local air traffic patterns.

Questions have emerged about why advance notice wasn't provided to the commercial flight about the B-52's presence. The pilot's recorded comments specifically addressed this concern, noting the unusual nature of the situation and the Air Force base's radar capabilities.

The U.S. Air Force and Minot Air Force Base officials have yet to provide detailed information about the incident. Their response could shed light on the communications breakdown that led to this dangerous near-miss situation.

Critical Investigation Developments Unfold

The Federal Aviation Administration's investigation will focus on determining how the two aircraft came into such close proximity. The incident highlights the critical importance of maintaining clear communication channels between military and civilian aviation operations.

SkyWest Airlines has committed to fully cooperating with the investigation while maintaining its focus on passenger safety. The airline's response to the incident demonstrates their commitment to transparency and safety protocols.

The outcome of this investigation could lead to enhanced safety measures and improved coordination between military and civilian aircraft operating in shared airspace. The incident serves as a reminder of the crucial role that pilot training and quick decision-making play in avoiding potential disasters.