NTSB Identifies Air Traffic Control Error in Austin Near-Collision

FedEx and Southwest planes narrowly avoided disaster due to controller's faulty assumptions in foggy conditions.

• FedEx plane came within 200 feet of Southwest jet during landing and takeoff at Austin airport.
• NTSB highlights air traffic controller's incorrect assumptions as primary cause.
• Controller's lack of visibility and inadequate training in low-visibility conditions contributed to the incident.
• FedEx crew's quick response averted potential catastrophe involving 133 people.
• NTSB recommends enhanced ground-tracking technology and frequent position reporting by pilots.

5 Articles

Washington Post Hoodline CNN The Seattle Times Associated Press