On Saturday, April 18, 2026, two Southwest Airlines flights operating out of Nashville International Airport came within 500 feet of each other while one was executing a go‑around. The incident prompted both pilots to rely on their Traffic Collision Avoidance System (TCAS) to climb and descend, preventing a collision.
The near‑miss occurred when Southwest Flight 507, after initiating a precautionary go‑around because of gusty winds, received an air‑traffic‑control instruction that placed it directly in the path of the departing Southwest Flight 1152. The two aircraft were within 500 feet vertically, triggering TCAS alerts that guided the pilots to take evasive action.
The Federal Aviation Administration has opened an investigation into the event, citing that the controller’s instructions placed one aircraft directly in the path of the other. The investigation will assess whether procedural or human factors contributed to the near‑miss and whether any regulatory changes are warranted. The incident adds to a series of “close call” events that have prompted an FAA audit of Nashville’s air‑traffic‑control operations.
Southwest’s safety record remains strong, with its most recent fatal accident occurring in 2019 and no passenger fatalities in its history. A Southwest spokesperson said, “We are engaged with the FAA as part of the investigation. Southwest appreciates the professionalism of its Pilots and Flight Crews in responding to the event. Nothing is more important to Southwest than the Safety of our Customers and Employees.” The airline has reiterated its commitment to safety and cooperation with regulators.
The incident highlights broader concerns about the U.S. air‑traffic‑control system, including staffing shortages, controller fatigue, and aging infrastructure. FAA reports indicate the agency is short of its controller staffing targets, and the system’s infrastructure is considered antiquated. The investigation may lead to temporary operational adjustments or delays at Nashville, especially during gusty conditions.
While the FAA investigation is ongoing, Southwest has stated it will review its flight‑path management procedures in the Nashville region. The airline’s focus on safety and its proactive engagement with regulators are intended to maintain confidence among passengers and industry stakeholders.
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