Air traffic control audio released this week revealed a tense moment when an American Eagle pilot getting ready to land asked what flight had been cleared for take off on the same runway before being forced to go around the airport. The Delta Connection pilot with 76 passengers onboard said they were ready for takeoff on Runway 2-8 at Syracuse Hancock International Airport. This caused the American Eagle pilot, who was coming into the airport with 75 passengers, to inquire about who was cleared to take off on the same runway.
As a result, air traffic control instructed the American Eagle pilot to “go around” to avoid a potential collision. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is currently investigating the incident to determine the closest proximity of the aircraft as part of an ongoing investigation. The two planes reportedly came within 700 to 1,000 feet of each other, which is approximately the length of two football fields.
In response to the incident, Delta, which is Endeavor Air’s parent company, stated that they will cooperate with aviation authorities to prioritize safety above all else. Despite the close call, there were no disruptions to airport operations on that day. This incident occurred during a period of record-breaking summer holiday travel, with the TSA screening a record number of travelers on July 7, the Sunday of the Fourth of July weekend.
It is essential for air traffic controllers and pilots to maintain clear communication and follow proper procedures to ensure the safety of all passengers and crew members. The FAA’s investigation will shed light on what led to the close proximity of the two planes and what measures can be taken to prevent similar incidents in the future.
Ultimately, both the Delta Connection flight and the American Eagle flight were able to land safely at their respective destinations without any further issues. The importance of safety in air travel cannot be overstated, and incidents like these serve as valuable learning opportunities for the aviation industry to enhance safety protocols and prevent potential accidents.
