Close Encounter: Commercial Pilot's Quick Thinking Over North Dakota

A SkyWest pilot flying over North Dakota performed an abrupt maneuver to avoid a B-52 bomber in his flight path. Captured by a passenger's video, the pilot explained the sharp turn while expressing frustration over the lack of communication. Both FAA and SkyWest are investigating the incident.

A regional airliner pilot made an unexpected sharp turn while flying over North Dakota, apologizing to passengers for the maneuver after spotting a military plane on the same course.

The incident, which occurred as Delta Flight 3788 approached Minot International Airport, was captured on video by a passenger. The pilot, who works for SkyWest, explained over the intercom that the sharp turn was necessary after sighting a B-52 bomber dangerously close.

SkyWest confirmed the flight, originating from Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport, landed safely after the maneuver. The Federal Aviation Administration and SkyWest are currently investigating. Meanwhile, the Air Force confirmed the presence of a B-52 conducting a flyover at a nearby event on the same day.