Recent air traffic incidents near Venezuela have raised significant safety concerns after two near midair collisions involving US Air Force aircraft were reported within a span of two days.
Details of the Incidents
On Saturday afternoon, a private Falcon 900EX business jet, traveling from Aruba to Miami, narrowly avoided a collision with a United States Air Force refueling tanker. The incident occurred at an altitude of approximately 26,000 feet. Pilots of the private jet reported the near miss to air traffic controllers in Curaçao, stating, “They were really close.” One pilot estimated the military aircraft’s size to be comparable to that of a Boeing 777 or 767.
First Near Midair Collision
The previous day, on Friday, JetBlue flight 1112 experienced a similar situation. This flight was en route from Curaçao to New York’s John F. Kennedy International Airport and had to abruptly halt its ascent due to a US Air Force refueling tanker crossing directly into its flight path. Notably, this military aircraft had its position-reporting transponder turned off at the time.
Responses from Authorities
- The Pentagon and Dutch aviation officials are currently reviewing both incidents.
- United States Southern Command confirmed its awareness of the ongoing situation and is analyzing military aircraft operations in the Caribbean.
- The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) is gathering information regarding both near misses.
Geographical Context
Curaçao is situated about 40 miles north of Venezuela’s coast, and the area has seen increased military activity as indicated by previous advisories from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). In a recent statement, the FAA warned US airlines of potential threats posed by this activity, which could impact aircraft safety during various flight phases.
Impact on International Flights
The FAA’s alert has prompted several international carriers to suspend flights to and from Venezuela. Copa Airlines announced an extension of its suspension of operations to Caracas, effective until January 15, due to “operational conditions” at Maiquetía International Airport.
As these incidents unfold, awareness and communication between commercial and military aviation sectors will be crucial to ensuring the safety of air travel in this region.
