JetBlue Flight Reports Near Miss With U.S. Military Jet Off Venezuela

Overview

• JetBlue Flight 1112 from Curaçao to New York on Dec. 12 halted its climb about 64 km off Venezuela to avoid a U.S. military tanker/jet that crossed its path.
• The crew told air traffic control the military aircraft was 2–3 miles away at the same altitude with its transponder off, then turned toward Venezuelan airspace.
• The pilot’s account was captured in recordings published by LiveATC.net.
• JetBlue said it notified federal authorities and credited the crew with following safety procedures.
• U.S. Southern Command said it is reviewing the incident, and on Dec. 16 the FAA issued a new caution to carriers about risks when flying over Venezuela.