Delta Connection Flight Narrowly Avoids In-Flight Collision with USAF B-52
ATLANTA, July 21, 2025 — A Delta Connection regional jet pilot took swift evasive action Friday afternoon to avert a near-collision with a U.S. Air Force B-52 Stratofortress during a routine approach to Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, according to preliminary reports from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB).
The incident, which occurred around 2:15 p.m. EDT on July 18, involved Delta Connection Flight 4321, operated by Endeavor Air, a subsidiary of Delta Air Lines. The CRJ-900 regional jet was on final approach from Charlotte, North Carolina, when air traffic control observed the military aircraft’s unexpected entry into civilian-controlled airspace.
FAA and NTSB Launch Investigations
According to the FAA, the B-52 was participating in a scheduled training exercise based out of Barksdale Air Force Base in Louisiana. For reasons still under investigation, the bomber deviated from its assigned altitude and heading, intersecting the commercial flight corridor used by incoming civilian traffic to Atlanta.
The Delta regional pilot performed an “aggressive avoidance maneuver,” banking sharply and descending to avoid the B-52, which reportedly passed within 1,100 feet laterally and 400 feet vertically of the passenger jet. No injuries were reported among the 74 passengers and 4 crew members on board.
Air Traffic Control Communication Under Review
Preliminary audio reviewed by the NTSB indicates that air traffic controllers issued urgent warnings to both aircraft in the seconds before the near-miss. Investigators are analyzing whether any airspace coordination lapses or communication breakdowns contributed to the incident.
The U.S. Air Force has confirmed that the B-52 crew complied with controller instructions to return to their assigned flight path immediately after the event. “The safety of both military and civilian air operations is our utmost priority,” the Air Force said in a statement, adding that a full internal review is underway.
Passengers Praise Crew Response
Passengers reported feeling a sudden jolt and a sharp turn as the jet descended rapidly. Delta Air Lines issued a statement commending the flight crew for their professionalism and adherence to safety protocols, assuring the public that safety remains the airline’s highest commitment.
While the FAA classifies the event as a “serious incident,” both agencies emphasized that the quick actions of the Delta pilot prevented a potentially catastrophic collision. Ongoing investigations will examine radar data, cockpit recordings, and air traffic control logs to determine contributing factors and recommend safety improvements.
Airspace Safety in Focus
This event has renewed discussions about the integration and deconfliction of military and civilian air traffic, especially near major commercial hubs. Aviation safety experts note that while such close calls are rare, they highlight the importance of robust communication and strict adherence to flight plans.
- No injuries reported; all passengers and crew safe
- FAA, NTSB, and U.S. Air Force conducting parallel investigations
- Event classified as a “serious incident” by authorities
Further updates will be provided as official investigations progress.
