Wed Feb 26 05:38:05 UTC 2025: ## Southwest Pilot Averts Disaster, Avoiding Collision with Private Jet at Chicago Midway
**Chicago, IL –** A Southwest Airlines pilot averted a potential catastrophe Tuesday morning at Chicago Midway International Airport, executing a last-second go-around to avoid a collision with a private jet that entered the runway without authorization. The incident, which occurred around 8:50 am, involved Southwest Flight 2504 arriving from Omaha, Nebraska, and a Bombardier Challenger 350 preparing for takeoff to Knoxville, Tennessee.
Video footage circulating on social media shows the Southwest plane initiating its landing when the private jet unexpectedly appeared on the runway. The Southwest pilot, reportedly only 50 feet from touchdown, immediately aborted the landing, climbing sharply to avoid a collision. The plane subsequently landed safely after the maneuver.
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) are investigating the incident. Preliminary reports indicate the private jet pilot received incorrect information from air traffic control and subsequently ignored at least nine warnings to hold position away from the runway. Midway air traffic control repeatedly corrected the information and instructed the pilot to remain clear of the runway.
The close call comes amidst a recent spate of aviation incidents, including a deadly mid-air collision last month. This incident highlights the critical importance of adherence to air traffic control instructions and underscores the quick thinking and skill of the Southwest pilot in preventing a major tragedy. The FAA and NTSB investigations are expected to determine the full circumstances of the near-miss and identify any contributing factors.
First Piper 