The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is investigating a close call between two commercial jets taking off on parallel runways at San Francisco International Airport. The incident occurred on May 13, when the United flight made an unauthorized turn while being cleared to make a right turn.
According to FlightRadar24, the planes were separated by only 1,950 feet laterally and 275 feet vertically while taking off simultaneously. The SkyWest crew activated an evasive maneuver to avoid a collision with the United plane’s path.
United Airlines has confirmed that it is reviewing the incident, while SkyWest says its crew managed to complete its flight to Fresno after making the necessary maneuvers. An FAA spokesperson stated that the United plane turned without authorization, and the agency is investigating the event.
Former NTSB investigator Greg Feith noted that the dynamic environment of air traffic control presented several factors that could have led to a catastrophic event. However, according to him, the correct systems were in place, communications took place, and corrective actions were initiated to prevent the situation.
Source: https://abc7.com/post/united-airlines-plane-makes-wrong-turn-colliding-skywest-flight-san-francisco-international-airport-faa/16612378