A JetBlue flight from Curaçao narrowly avoided a collision with a U.S. Air Force tanker on Friday. The pilot reported the military aircraft crossed directly in their flight path, leading to a hazardous situation.
Details of the Incident
JetBlue Flight 1112 was traveling from Curaçao, a Caribbean island near Venezuela, to John F. Kennedy International Airport in New York City. During its ascent, the pilot engaged with air traffic control to express concern about the nearing military aircraft.
In a recorded conversation, the pilot stated, “We almost had a midair collision up here. They passed directly in our flight path. … They don’t have their transponder turned on; it’s outrageous.” The incident occurred at approximately 2 to 3 miles from the JetBlue aircraft, with both planes at similar altitudes.
US Military Activity in the Region
This incident comes amid increased U.S. military operations aimed at combating drug trafficking and applying pressure on the Venezuelan government. Following the near-miss, the Air Force plane continued into Venezuelan airspace.
Reactions and Safety Measures
Air traffic control acknowledged the seriousness of the situation. The controller remarked, “It has been outrageous with the unidentified aircraft within our air.” In response to the incident, JetBlue spokesperson Derek Dombrowski confirmed that the airline had reported the event to federal authorities. The airline’s crew received praise for their quick reporting of the incident.
- Flight: JetBlue Flight 1112
- Departure: Curaçao
- Destination: John F. Kennedy International Airport, New York City
- Date: Friday
- Proximity: 2-3 miles from collision
- Involved aircraft: U.S. Air Force refueling tanker
The Pentagon directed inquiries to the Air Force for further comments, but no immediate response was provided. Additionally, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) had previously warned U.S. aircraft to exercise caution in Venezuelan airspace due to rising military activity and deteriorating security conditions.
