Southwest Flight Diverts to Avoid Collision Near Burbank
Southwest Flight Diverts to Avoid Collision Near Burbank
A Southwest Airlines flight departing from Hollywood Burbank Airport experienced a rapid 475-foot descent recently to avert a potential mid-air collision with another aircraft, according to flight tracking data and passenger accounts. The incident, involving Southwest Flight 1496 bound for Las Vegas, occurred approximately six minutes after takeoff.
Passengers described a frightening, sudden drop. One passenger, Steve Ulasewicz, recounted an “eight to ten-second drop of free fall” that caused widespread screaming among those on board. The pilot reportedly informed passengers that the maneuver was a response to a collision avoidance alert.
The other aircraft involved was identified as a Hawker Hunter with the registration N335AX. Preliminary data indicates the planes were several miles apart when their respective collision avoidance systems activated, prompting the Southwest flight to descend while the other aircraft maintained its altitude.
Upon landing safely in Las Vegas, a flight attendant was reportedly treated for injuries. Southwest Airlines has confirmed its engagement with the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to investigate the circumstances surrounding the event. The FAA is also conducting its own investigation into the close call.
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