Radar data from FlightRadar24 reveals a close call between an Alaska Airlines 737 and a FedEx 777 cargo plane at Newark Liberty International Airport. The two aircraft nearly collided while attempting to land on intersecting runways around 8:17 p.m. Tuesday.
The Alaska Airlines flight had arrived from Portland, Oregon, and the FedEx cargo plane from Memphis, Tennessee. Seconds before touchdown, air traffic control instructed the Alaska flight to execute a go-around when it was only 150 feet above ground.
FlightRadar24’s preliminary analysis shows the Alaska aircraft passed within 300 to 325 feet of the FedEx plane, which continued its landing on the intersecting runway. Air traffic control audio corroborates the close timing and need for immediate response.
Michael McCormick, former FAA vice president, explained the incident reflected the difficulty controllers face managing intersecting runway operations. He noted the controller delayed the go-around command too long, necessitating the evasive maneuver.
This event follows a recent incident involving a Singapore Airlines aircraft and a parked Spirit Airlines plane, highlighting ongoing operational risks. However, that prior event occurred in an uncontrolled area of the airport.
The FAA refers to go-arounds as routine safety procedures and has launched an investigation into the Newark incident. Both Alaska Airlines and FedEx have issued statements emphasizing their compliance with air traffic control orders and ongoing cooperation with federal authorities.
FedEx confirmed its flight landed safely without incident, directing further questions to the FAA. Alaska Airlines noted their pilots are highly trained for go-arounds and acknowledged the FAA and NTSB investigations.
The near-miss occurred amid staffing shortages affecting the Transportation Security Administration during a partial government shutdown. These shortages have contributed to longer security wait times at major airports.
Key details of the incident:
- Alaska Airlines 737 arrived from Portland, FedEx 777 from Memphis.
- Incident time: Approximately 8:17 p.m. local time.
- Runways involved: Intersecting runways at Newark Liberty International Airport.
- Aircraft separation: 300-325 feet during landing maneuvers.
- Air traffic control action: Go-around command issued to Alaska flight seconds before touchdown at 150 feet altitude.
- Investigation: FAA and NTSB currently investigating the close call.
The rare but serious runway intersection scenario underscores challenges faced by airport controllers. The quick response to instruct a go-around ultimately prevented a collision. Federal agencies will analyze the event to improve safety protocols around busy, complex airport environments.
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