A routine regional flight nearly turned into a national tragedy when a Delta Connection jet, operated by SkyWest Airlines, executed a sharp climb to avoid a near-collision with a US Air Force B-52 bomber. The incident unfolded in the airspace above Minot International Airport just as the commercial jet was about to land.
Final Approach Turns Frightening
Passengers on board SkyWest Flight were preparing for landing after a short trip from Minneapolis. The aircraft, an Embraer 175, had been cleared by air traffic control to approach Minot airport. As it descended through the final stages of its approach, the pilot and first officer spotted a massive aircraft intersecting their flight path.
What they saw was a B-52 Stratofortress, one of the largest and most powerful bombers in the US military arsenal. The bomber was en route to participate in a ceremonial flyover connected to the North Dakota State Fair.
Lacking prior warning from air traffic controllers, the SkyWest crew quickly assessed the developing situation. To avoid a potential collision, they executed what has been described as an "aggressive maneuver" — a go-around, climbing and banking sharply to evade the bomber.
Pilot’s Voice Becomes the Story
Over the public address system, the captain addressed passengers directly:
"Sorry about that. We had to make an aggressive maneuver. No one told us the bomber was there. We’re going to circle around and land safely."
This brief but calm message helped ease tensions in the cabin and was later widely circulated in national media.
Tower Limitations Under Scrutiny
Minot International Airport operates under visual flight rules and lacks advanced radar systems. Air traffic control is handled by contracted personnel rather than FAA-employed controllers, which limits their situational awareness—especially when high-speed military aircraft like a B-52 enter the civilian airspace.
Who Was Involved
- Airline: SkyWest Airlines (operating for Delta Connection)
- Aircraft: Embraer E175
- Passengers & Crew: Over seventy onboard
- Military Aircraft: US Air Force B-52 Stratofortress
- Location: Minot International Airport
What Caused the Conflict?
Preliminary reports indicate that there was no advance communication from the tower or military about the B-52’s flight path. The bomber was performing a ceremonial flyover and may not have been in direct coordination with civilian controllers.
How the Situation Was Resolved
Thanks to the decisive action by the flight crew, the aircraft safely climbed and looped back for a smooth landing. SkyWest confirmed that the maneuver was pilot-initiated and not directed by the tower.
Civilian-Military Airspace Integration: A Growing Concern
This near-miss highlights the critical need for better coordination between military and civilian aviation entities. Although advanced technologies like ADS-B are widely used, many towers do not have the real-time tools to monitor military aircraft entering their airspace.
Public and Industry Reaction
The pilot's clear-headed response received praise from passengers and the broader aviation community. Safety experts are calling for a reevaluation of procedures involving military flights near contract-controlled civilian airports.
What Happens Next
The FAA and USAF are launching parallel investigations. SkyWest is also conducting an internal review. The findings are expected to inform updated protocols on airspace coordination.
The Bigger Picture
This incident serves as a warning that even routine flights can turn dangerous without full coordination. Thanks to the skill and situational awareness of the Delta Connection flight crew, disaster was averted. However, systemic improvements are now essential.
Watch the Moment
Watch a real-time recording and pilot's announcement from the incident here:
Delta Flight’s Dramatic Mid-Air Maneuver Avoids B-52 Bomber
