Did an ATC Error Put Allegiant A320 and JetEdge G-IV on a Collision Course?

The US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is actively investigating a serious FAA airprox investigation involving two aircraft over Florida. The incident, which occurred on July 23, 2023, involved an Allegiant Air Airbus A320 and a JetEdge Gulfstream G-IV business jet. This Allegiant Air JetEdge near miss highlights ongoing concerns about airspace management and safety protocols.

Details of the Air Proximity Incident

The close call took place off the coast of Florida, near Palm Bay. Both aircraft were cruising at an altitude of 23,000 feet on roughly parallel tracks. The Allegiant Air Flight 485, an Airbus A320, was instructed to turn eastbound by an air traffic controller. This instruction, issued from the Miami Air Route Traffic Control Center (ARTCC), inadvertently directed the airliner across the path of the northbound Gulfstream.

This Air traffic control error immediately triggered automated safety systems. The aircraft came within a close proximity. Data showed a separation of 2.59 miles laterally and 1,175 feet vertically at the closest point.

TCAS Intervention and Evasive Action

The pilots of both the Allegiant Airbus A320 Gulfstream G-IV received alerts. The Traffic Collision Avoidance System (TCAS) issued automated warnings to the flight crews. This crucial technology is designed to prevent a mid-air collision (MAC).

Both flight crews responded immediately to the TCAS resolution advisories. The Allegiant flight began a climb, while the JetEdge Gulfstream initiated a descent. This Flight 485 evasive action successfully increased the Airspace separation standards and averted a disaster. The Allegiant flight, which was headed to Lexington, Kentucky, returned to Fort Lauderdale International Airport (FLL). A flight attendant was treated for injuries resulting from the sudden maneuver.

Broader Aviation Safety Implications

This incident is categorized as an Aviation safety close call. It adds to a series of near-miss events that prompted the FAA to convene a safety summit earlier in 2023. The focus of the investigation will likely center on the role of the air traffic controller.

• Risk: The reliance on TCAS as the final safety barrier highlights potential weaknesses in Air traffic control error prevention.
• Challenge: The FAA faces the challenge of managing increasing air traffic volume. This is especially true in complex airspace like South Florida.
• Opportunity: The investigation offers a chance to reinforce communication protocols. It can also lead to updated training for controllers at the Miami Air Route Traffic Control Center.

Stakeholders across the industry are closely watching the FAA’s findings. The outcome will influence future safety procedures. It will also determine potential changes to Airspace separation standards for both commercial and general aviation traffic.

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