FAA Investigates Chicago Midway Near Miss

In a tense incident at Chicago’s Midway International Airport, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is investigating a close call between a private jet and Southwest Airlines Flight 2504. On Tuesday morning, video footage revealed the Southwest flight nearly touching down before abruptly taking off again to avoid a jet that had crossed its path on the runway.

The FAA confirmed that the private jet entered the runway without authorization, prompting the Southwest crew to execute a “go-around” maneuver to prevent a collision. Southwest Airlines later issued a statement affirming that the flight landed safely after the precautionary measure.

“The crew adhered to safety protocols, and the flight concluded without incident,” the airline stated. “The safety of our customers and employees is our top priority.”

Audio from the air traffic control tower indicated instructions for planes to hold position at the crossroads while the Southwest flight attempted to land. Flexjet, the luxury private jet service involved, acknowledged the incident and emphasized their commitment to safety.

“Flexjet maintains the highest safety standards, and we are conducting a thorough investigation,” a spokesperson said. “We will take any necessary actions to uphold these standards.”

Requests for comments from the Chicago Department of Transportation and the Chicago Department of Aviation went unanswered, according to NBC Chicago.

This latest incident adds to a string of recent aviation mishaps that have left travelers on edge. Within the past month, a Delta flight bound for Australia had to return to Los Angeles after smoke was detected in the galley, and another Delta flight returned to Atlanta after reporting “possible smoke” onboard. Additionally, a Delta plane flipped upside down during landing in Toronto, injuring 21 passengers.

Tragically, January witnessed two deadly plane crashes. A midair collision near Reagan National Airport in Washington, D.C., involving a military helicopter and an American Airlines flight, claimed 67 lives. Days later, a medical jet crashed near a Philadelphia mall, killing all six onboard and a civilian in a car, with 24 others injured.

These incidents have heightened anxieties among fliers, with flight crews striving to reassure passengers. One viral TikTok video captured a pilot’s heartfelt message before takeoff, emphasizing the crew’s dedication to passenger safety.

“Please know that my first officer, our flight attendants, and I prioritize your safety and the responsibility of getting you to Miami,” the pilot stated.