Volaris Jet's Unauthorized Turn at Houston IAH Forces Close Call with United Express

A serious aviation safety incident unfolded at Houston Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) on December 18, 2025. Two passenger jets narrowly avoided a midair collision avoided shortly after takeoff. The incident triggered a federal investigation by the FAA, focusing on a critical pilot error.

Incident Breakdown

The close call involved Volaris Airlines flight 4321, an Airbus A320neo bound for El Salvador. The other aircraft was CommuteAir Flight 814, operating as United Express, heading to Jackson, Mississippi. Both planes departed from parallel runway operations at IAH around 3:05 p.m. local time.

Air traffic control (ATC) had issued precise air traffic control instructions to separate the flights. The Volaris crew was instructed to execute a left turn after takeoff. Instead, the pilot made an unauthorized turn after takeoff to the right. This maneuver placed the Volaris jet directly into the flight path of the departing United Express Embraer E145.

Data reviewed by aviation analysts showed the aircraft came dangerously close. They were reportedly within 700 feet laterally and 150 feet vertically of each other. Aviation experts noted this proximity was far too close for safety.

Safety Systems Avert Disaster

The final line of defense, the onboard Traffic Alert and Collision Avoidance System (TCAS), activated. The system issued a “Resolution Advisory” (RA) to the flight crews. This automated warning prompted the pilots to take immediate evasive action. Both aircraft avoided contact and continued safely to their destinations.

CommuteAir stated that its crew followed all ATC instructions. Volaris has not yet released a public statement on the matter.

Regulatory Response and Industry Focus

An FAA investigation launched immediately following the incident. The agency will review radar data, controller recordings, and pilot reports. The focus will be on determining the exact cause of the execution error.

This event highlights the critical importance of procedural discipline during departures. Near-misses, while rare, underscore the need for continuous vigilance in commercial air travel. Findings from the FAA probe could lead to new safety protocols. For more information on this and other industry developments, visit our dedicated section for commercial aviation news.

• The Volaris Airbus A320neo was instructed to turn left but turned right.
• The aircraft came within 700 feet laterally and 150 feet vertically.
• The Traffic Alert and Collision Avoidance System (TCAS) prevented a collision.
• The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is leading the investigation.