A Southwest Airlines plane experienced a close call at Chicago Midway International Airport on Tuesday morning when it entered a runway without approval while a private jet was also on the runway. The FAA and National Transportation Safety Board are investigating the incident, which occurred around 8:50 AM local time. Southwest Flight 2504, which had arrived from Omaha, safely landed after its crew executed a go-around to avoid the Bombardier Challenger 350 jet bound for Knoxville.
Air traffic control had instructed the private jet to avoid certain runways, but there was a communication issue that led to the close call. The Southwest crew followed safety protocols and landed without incident, emphasizing their commitment to safety. U.S. Transport Secretary Sean Duffy stressed the importance of pilots adhering to air traffic control directives.
FlexJet, the operator of the private jet, is aware of the situation and is investigating further. The incident adds to a recent series of high-profile aviation safety issues, including a fatal air collision and other accidents. Between January and September 2024, the NTSB has investigated 13 runway incursions, highlighting ongoing safety concerns in aviation. The story is still developing.
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