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| IMAGE SOURCE BY- AP7AM |
Los Angeles, CA – A potentially catastrophic accident was averted at Los when quick-thinking air traffic controllers intervened to stop a chartered plane carrying the Gonzaga University men’s basketball team.
The incident occurred as the Embraer B236 aircraft, arriving from Spokane, Washington, nearly crossed onto an active runway where another plane was taking off. Air traffic controllers shouted “stop, stop!” to the pilots, preventing a collision just moments before disaster could strike.
FAA Launches Investigation
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has launched an investigation into the near-miss. In a statement, the FAA clarified that the chartered plane carrying the team had not crossed the edge of the runway but came dangerously close as Key Lime Air Flight 563 was departing.
“Air traffic controllers ordered Key Lime Air Flight 563 not to cross the runway,” the FAA explained. “As the Embraer E136 proceeded to cross the holding bar, controllers intervened, yelling at the pilots to stop.”
Eyewitness Account
The dramatic moment was captured by aviation enthusiast and plane spotter Kevin Ray, who described the air traffic controller’s urgent yell as unlike anything he had heard before. The video of the incident quickly went viral, highlighting the critical role of ATC in ensuring air safety.
University Responds
Gonzaga University issued a statement confirming the safety of all passengers onboard the plane. “We are obtaining more information about this incident and are relieved that everyone involved is safe,” the university said.
The team was traveling to Los Angeles ahead of their next day’s game. The scare has prompted heightened awareness about aviation safety, particularly when managing busy runways at major airports like LAX.
A Reminder of ATC’s Importance
This incident underscores the vital role of air traffic controllers in averting potential disasters. As the FAA continues its investigation, the aviation community is likely to review procedures to prevent such close calls in the future.
The Gonzaga basketball team and everyone on board the flight were unharmed, but the incident serves as a stark reminder of how quickly situations can escalate in aviation and the importance of vigilance in maintaining air safety.
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