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FAA Investigates Close Call Between JetBlue and Southwest Planes at Reagan National Airport

No injuries reported as two aircraft narrowly avoid collision on runway, prompting immediate FAA inquiry and review of air traffic control protocols.

Ronald Reagan National Airport (DCA) in Arlington, Virginia, US, on Wednesday, Aug. 30, 2023. American Airlines Group Inc. flight attendants gave their union leaders approval to trigger a strike if the labor group is eventually allowed to end contract negotiations under federal labor law, the Association of Professional Flight Attendants said. Photographer: Al Drago/Bloomberg via Getty Images
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Overview

  • Two planes, a JetBlue flight to Boston and a Southwest flight to Orlando, nearly collided on the runway at Reagan National Airport.
  • The incident occurred when an air traffic controller mistakenly cleared both planes onto the same runway.
  • Quick action by air traffic controllers averted a potential disaster, with both planes stopping approximately 400 feet apart.
  • The FAA has launched a formal investigation to understand the circumstances and prevent future occurrences.
  • Both airlines are cooperating with the investigation, emphasizing safety as their top priority.