Two Southwest Airlines aircraft came dangerously close to each other near Nashville International Airport, prompting cockpit alarms and evasive action by both crews.
The incident happened on Saturday as Southwest Flight 507 from Myrtle Beach was attempting to land in gusty conditions while Flight 1152 was departing from a parallel runway, according to the airline.
Flight 507 aborted its landing as a precaution and was instructed to turn right, bringing it into the path of the departing aircraft.
“The crew… received instructions from air traffic control that put the flight in the path of another airplane,” the Federal Aviation Administration said in a statement.
Collision warning systems were triggered in both cockpits, directing pilots to take immediate action.
Air traffic audio suggests both crews followed those instructions.
Tracking data from Flightradar24 showed the aircraft were separated by only around 500 feet vertically at their closest point.
Despite the near miss, both flights continued safely. Flight 1152 proceeded to Knoxville, while Flight 507 landed successfully on its second attempt in Nashville.
“We are engaged with the FAA as part of the investigation,” a Southwest spokesperson said.
“Southwest appreciates the professionalism of its pilots and flight crews in responding to the event. Nothing is more important to Southwest than the safety of our customers and employees.”
The FAA has launched an investigation into the incident.
