FAA Launches Probe After Delta 737 and American A321 Near Collision at JFK

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has launched a formal aviation safety investigation.

This probe follows a serious near-miss incident at John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK). The incident involved a Delta Air Lines Boeing 737 and an American Airlines Airbus A321.

The two Delta American Airlines planes came close to colliding on an active runway. This type of event is officially classified as a JFK airport runway incursion.

Investigation Details

Preliminary reports suggest a possible air traffic control error was a major factor. This potential breakdown in pilot and controller communication is the focus of the FAA’s inquiry. The investigation will review air traffic control audio and flight crew procedures. The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) may also conduct an independent review.

Such incidents are categorized by severity. The most serious are Category A or B events. These are incidents where a collision was narrowly missed. The outcome of this aviation safety investigation will determine the final classification.

Context of Runway Safety

This close call highlights ongoing commercial aviation safety concerns. Runway incursions remain a critical safety focus for the industry. The FAA reported 1,115 total runway incursions in the 12 months ending May 31 (2024 data).

Controller errors are a significant cause of high-risk incursions. They play a role in most Category A and B events. Misunderstandings in communication also contribute to a high percentage of all aviation incidents.

In response to previous close calls, the FAA issued a 2023 Safety Call to Action. This initiative aims at preventing runway incursions nationwide. The agency is also implementing new technology. These systems are designed to improve controller situational awareness.

Industry Impact and Outlook

The incident underscores the critical importance of procedural adherence. Strict compliance by both pilots and air traffic controllers is essential. Any serious runway safety incident can cause significant operational disruption. It also affects public confidence in the national airspace system.

For passengers, these events mean potential delays and anxiety. For airlines, they trigger internal safety reviews. The aviation community awaits the FAA’s final report. This report will provide key findings and safety recommendations. This information is vital for future risk mitigation efforts across all major hubs. Read more commercial aviation news at flying.flights.

• The FAA investigates near miss between a Delta 737 and American A321 at JFK.
• Preliminary reports point to a communication error between ATC and flight crews.
• The incident is a high-priority runway incursion event for the FAA and NTSB.
• Runway incursions remain a top safety challenge, despite recent FAA efforts to reduce high-risk events.