Another close call between a UAL jet with 168 pax on board and an Army Blackhawk 3/24 at KSNA (John Wayne) in SoCal. Is this happening more often, or are the media just reporting it more?

I have lunch soon with my good friend who was a career Air Traffic Controller so I will get to deep dive into this topic with him. I usually come away from conversations with him learning it is far worse than we realize.

Is America Great yet? No? Two one-way tix to Bora Bora, please.

https://www.nbclosangeles.com/news/local/faa-investigation-united-airlines-plane-military-helicopter-john-wayne-airport-santa-ana/3867139

@Av8rdan I wonder what went sideways this time. NTSB/FAA will be busy.

@WiredForFlight Read my follow-up post. The Blackhawk's "Assigned altitude" on the VFR route was in direct conflict with the landing UAL jet.

Sounds like overworked, underpaid, stressed controller error yet again. Seems to be the theme lately.

At least they're getting paid this time.

Yes, NTSB (or what's left of it after it was Doge'ed) has their hands full now.

@Av8rdan I am guessing we will find a good # of these types of routes with deep examination
@WiredForFlight Yes. Sean Duffy is all over it, fixing ATC. He just has to find some billionaire crony out at the Country Club who can offer ATC services to the country on a shady no-bid, under-the-table contract, because that's how they roll.