Delta Regional Jet Makes Sharp Maneuver to Avoid B-52 Bomber Near Minot Airport

 

In a dramatic moment that could have turned tragic, a Delta Connection flight operated by SkyWest Airlines was forced to make an abrupt evasive maneuver on July 18, 2025, to avoid a potential mid-air collision with a U.S. Air Force B-52 bomber. The incident occurred near Minot International Airport (MOT) in North Dakota as both aircraft were on approach to land.

What Happened?

SkyWest Flight 3788, an Embraer E175 flying under the Delta brand, was on final approach when the crew spotted a B-52 Stratofortress on a seemingly intersecting path. According to initial pilot reports, the flight crew executed an “aggressive maneuver” to avoid the bomber, opting for a go-around at the last second. The flight landed safely a short time later.

Passengers described a sharp, sudden turn that deviated from a typical approach pattern. Although there were no injuries, many were left shocked by the unexpected motion and the pilot’s apology over the intercom.

“Sorry for the aggressive maneuver… it caught me by surprise,” the pilot reportedly said. “This is not normal at all… thank you for your understanding.”

Lack of Warning Raises Concerns

One of the most troubling aspects of the incident is that the Delta crew received no prior warning about the presence of the military aircraft. There was no traffic alert or coordination from Air Traffic Control (ATC) or Minot Air Force Base, according to statements attributed to the flight crew. Visual separation was the only method available at the time.

This incident echoes recent concerns about the integration of civil and military operations in shared airspace. Minot, home to both a civilian airport and a major U.S. Air Force installation, regularly hosts B-52 flights and other military operations.

Investigation Underway

SkyWest Airlines has launched an internal investigation into the incident, and the FAA has been notified. The U.S. Air Force has also acknowledged the occurrence and confirmed that a B-52 had been performing a flyover related to a scheduled event at the North Dakota State Fair that evening.

Both agencies are reviewing communication protocols, airspace coordination, and the chain of command for handling air traffic in regions with overlapping military and civilian operations.

Why This Matters

This close call follows a troubling pattern of near-misses involving civilian aircraft and military operations in U.S. airspace. It also revives questions raised earlier this year after the fatal collision between a regional passenger jet and a military helicopter near Washington D.C.

As shared airspace becomes increasingly congested, experts argue that improvements in ATC coordination, radar visibility, and inter-agency communication are critical to preventing future incidents.

Although no one was harmed in this incident, the evasive action taken by the Delta Connection crew was a clear reminder of the risks posed by limited visibility and poor coordination between civil and military aviation sectors. The investigations underway may lead to changes in procedures that improve safety at airports with nearby military presence.