JetBlue Pilot Narrowly Avoids Midair Collision With US Air Force Plane Near Venezuela

A JetBlue pilot has described a near midair collision with a US Air Force refueling tanker near Venezuelan airspace as “outrageous,” claiming the military aircraft did not have its transponder activated.

The incident occurred on Friday involving JetBlue Flight 1112, which was traveling from Curaçao to New York’s JFK Airport. According to air traffic control recordings, the commercial aircraft was forced to halt its climb to avoid colliding with the military plane.

“We Almost Had a Midair Collision”

“We almost had a midair collision up here,” the JetBlue pilot told air traffic controllers.
“They passed directly in our flight path. They don’t have their transponder turned on. It’s outrageous.”

The pilot reported that the US Air Force air-to-air refueling tanker crossed directly in front of the JetBlue aircraft, coming within an estimated two to five miles while flying at the same altitude.

“We had to stop our climb,” the pilot said, adding that the military aircraft later continued into Venezuelan airspace.

JetBlue Confirms Incident, Investigation Expected

JetBlue spokesperson Derek Dombrowski confirmed the incident on Sunday, stating that the airline has reported the event to federal authorities.

“Our crew members are trained on proper procedures for various flight situations, and we appreciate our crew for promptly reporting this situation to our leadership team,” Dombrowski said, adding that JetBlue will cooperate fully with any investigation.

Pentagon and Air Force Response Pending

The Pentagon referred inquiries to the US Air Force, which did not immediately respond to requests for comment from the Associated Press.

The incident comes amid increased US military activity in the Caribbean and near Venezuela, including operations targeting suspected drug smuggling routes and heightened pressure on the Venezuelan government.

FAA Warning Over Venezuelan Airspace

Last month, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) issued a warning advising US aircraft to “exercise caution” when operating in or near Venezuelan airspace due to worsening security conditions and heightened military activity.

According to the air traffic control recording, the controller acknowledged the pilot’s concerns, responding:
“It has been outrageous with the unidentified aircraft within our air.”