A dangerous near miss occurred at San Diego International Airport when a Cessna Citation private jet came within just 100 feet of colliding with a Southwest Airlines commercial flight. The incident unfolded as the Cessna Citation was preparing to land on runway 27, while simultaneously, the Southwest Airlines flight 2493 was given instructions to taxi onto the same runway for takeoff clearance.
The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) is investigating this runway incursion, marking the seventh such occurrence this year. NTSB Chair Jennifer Homendy expressed concerns about these incidents, citing the potential for catastrophic outcomes.
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) stated that collision warning alarms alerted air traffic controllers, prompting them to order the private jet to abort the landing and perform a go-around. Archived air traffic control audio revealed the pilot’s inquiry about the safety of the landing path, and upon confirming the danger, the pilot initiated a go-around maneuver.
The incident underscores the crucial role of air traffic control in maintaining safety in the skies and the need for strict adherence to protocols to prevent potential disasters. No injuries were reported as a result of the incident.