Overview

• The pilot of Southwest Flight 1496 initiated a steep descent eight minutes after takeoff, losing 150 feet in 36 seconds to avoid a potential collision.
• FlightAware data show the evasive maneuver was triggered by a cockpit collision-avoidance alert near a British-owned Hawker Hunter Mk-58 fighter jet.
• Two flight attendants sustained minor injuries after being thrown from their seats during the rapid altitude change without their seat belts fastened.
• The Boeing 737-700 regained stable altitude and completed its journey, landing safely in Las Vegas with no further safety issues.
• The Federal Aviation Administration has launched a formal probe to review collision-avoidance system data and mixed-use airspace procedures.