A Delta regional jet approaching Minot, North Dakota, executed an “aggressive maneuver” to evade a potential mid-air collision with a B-52 bomber, as reported by the Delta pilot.
The occurrence transpired on July 18, as stated by the airline. The flight, managed by SkyWest, had taken off from Minneapolis. Upon landing, the pilot expressed regret to passengers for the sudden action and clarified the circumstances.
The pilot of a Delta Connection flight operating an Embraer E175LR aircraft, similar to the one depicted here, was compelled to perform an “aggressive” maneuver on July 19, 2025, to avert a mid-air collision with an Air Force B-22 bomber. (Getty) Kevin Carter/Getty Images
“Considering their velocity. . . I cannot ascertain how swiftly they were traveling, but they were significantly faster than us, I determined it was the most secure choice to turn behind it,” the pilot remarked, according to a recorded conversation. “I sincerely apologize for the aggressive maneuver; it took me by surprise, this is not standard practice at all. I am unsure why we did not receive a warning, as the Air Force base is equipped with radar. . . in short, it was not an enjoyable experience, but I do apologize for it and appreciate your understanding. It was not an enjoyable day at work. ”
It remains unclear how close the two aircraft were to one another or if a cockpit alert was triggered to notify the pilots of a potential collision. Minot hosts an Air Force base that operates B-52 bombers.
“We are aware of the recent reports concerning commercial and Air Force aircraft operating in the airspace surrounding Minot International Airport. We are currently investigating the situation. We can confirm that a B-52 aircraft assigned to Minot AFB conducted a flyover of the North Dakota State Fair Friday evening,” an Air Force spokesperson communicated to ABC News on Sunday evening. MORE: Air India captain may have shut off fuel ahead of deadly crash, WSJ reports
SkyWest indicated that it is looking into the incident.
“SkyWest flight 3788, operating as Delta Connection from Minneapolis, Minnesota to Minot, North Dakota, landed safely in Minot after being authorized for approach by the tower but executed a go-around when another aircraft appeared in their flight path. We are investigating the event,” noted a spokesperson.
