Monday, July 21, 2025
A Delta Airlines regional service flight was forced to make an emergency mid-air flight maneuver called a “go-around” to prevent a near mid-air collision with a B-52 bomber over Minot, North Dakota recently. It concerned Delta Connection flight DL3788 (operator SkyWest Airlines) en route from Minneapolis-Saint Paul International Airport (MSP) to Minot International Airport (MOT) on 18 July 2025.
What is a ‘Go-Around’ in Aviation?
A “go-around” is a standard yet critical procedure where pilots abort their landing attempt, pulling the aircraft back up into the air instead of touching down. This maneuver might be employed due to several factors, such as unstable approaches caused by incorrect altitude, speed, or alignment. It’s also necessary when the landing runway is unexpectedly occupied or during adverse weather conditions.
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) emphasizes that the go-around procedure is a fundamental safety maneuver, regularly practiced by pilots to ensure preparedness and passenger safety during unexpected events.
How the Delta Pilot Avoided a Collision
The report aids indicate the Delta pilot was told by air traffic control to alter their approach as there wasn’t enough space with an aircraft in front. As they made the maneuvers, the flight crew saw a U.S. Air Force B-52 bomber that also was bearing down on their path.
Deciding in split seconds in which he was not given enough advance information on the military aircraft associated with the mission, the pilot took immediate action and performed a quick go-around. The pilot would later tell safety officials that it was the safest action to take under the surprise situation of being behind a military aircraft.
This is particularly unusual considering Minot Air Force Base happens to be home to ultra high-tech radar which can track any aircraft when in its vicinity. But there was no prior warning about the position of the B-52 bomber, leading to questions about communication and coordination between civilian and military aviation authorities.
Investigation and Response
SkyWest Airlines issued an official statement regarding flight DL3788, confirming that the flight had been cleared for landing but initiated a go-around upon identifying another aircraft on a conflicting trajectory. Fortunately, the flight safely landed afterward without any reported injuries.
Authorities have launched an investigation to determine the cause of the communication lapse and the proximity between the Delta flight and the military bomber. The primary objective is to identify any procedural weaknesses and ensure similar incidents do not occur in the future.
The FAA is expected to analyze cockpit voice and flight data recordings, air traffic communications, and radar information as part of its investigative process. The incident underscores the importance of robust communication protocols, especially around shared civilian-military airspace.
Enhancing Aviation Safety Protocols
This near-collision incident has highlighted the necessity for stronger coordination between military and civilian aviation operations. Experts stress the importance of proactive alerts, comprehensive radar monitoring, and clearly defined protocols for aircraft operating near shared airspace.
Ongoing cooperation between the FAA, airline operators, and military authorities will remain essential to maintaining safety standards and preventing similar incidents. Travelers and aviation professionals alike await the findings of the investigation, hopeful that insights gained will enhance future safety measures.
The rapid and professional response of the Delta Airlines crew in executing a go-around demonstrates the effectiveness of rigorous pilot training and preparedness in emergency scenarios, ultimately safeguarding passengers and crew.
