Delta Regional Pilot Executes Aggressive Maneuver to Avoid B-52 Near-Miss

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A Delta Connection flight narrowly avoided a mid-air collision with a U.S. Air Force B-52 bomber over North Dakota after the pilot performed a sudden evasive maneuver during the final approach to Minot International Airport. The quick-thinking response ensured passenger safety but raised serious concerns about airspace coordination near military installations.

Flight 3788, operated by SkyWest Airlines under the Delta Connection banner, had departed Minneapolis–Saint Paul on July 18 and was preparing to land in Minot when the pilot spotted another aircraft converging on their path. Without prior warning from air traffic control or military authorities, the pilot maneuvered to pass behind the B-52 bomber. Passengers described the moment as tense, though the maneuver was carried out with calm professionalism.

After landing, the pilot addressed passengers over the intercom, apologizing for the abrupt movement and explaining that it was necessary to ensure safety. He added that the aircraft’s collision avoidance depended on visual identification rather than radar-based alerts, leaving little room for automated systems to respond. According to passengers, the sharp turn was met with silence until the pilot’s reassurance helped calm the cabin.

SkyWest confirmed that Flight 3788 had been cleared for final approach but chose to execute a go-around after visual confirmation of another aircraft in the area.The B-52 involved was conducting operations from nearby Minot Air Force Base, which hosts one of the nation’s two B-52 bomber wings. While neither the U.S. Air Force nor the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has issued formal statements, an Air Force spokesperson acknowledged an ongoing internal review and confirmed that the aircraft had participated in a public flyover earlier in the day.

This incident follows a fatal collision in January between a civilian aircraft and a military helicopter near Washington, D.C., renewing calls for improved coordination between military and civilian aviation authorities. Safety analysts warn that overlapping airspace without sufficient warning systems or radar oversight could lead to catastrophic outcomes.

SkyWest and Delta have both launched internal investigations, and the FAA is expected to follow with its inquiry. Aviation experts and safety advocates are urging regulatory reforms, including mandatory radar alerts when military aircraft operate near commercial air corridors.

While no injuries occurred and the flight landed safely, the near-miss has reignited concerns over shared airspace near military zones. The event underscores the critical need for stronger communication and oversight to protect both national defense operations and the flying public.