The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is investigating a near-miss incident at Nashville International Airport involving two Southwest Airlines jets that came within 500 feet of each other.

Close Call at Nashville International Airport

The dangerous close call occurred this past Saturday around 5:30 p.m. The incident involved Southwest Airlines flights WN507 and WN1152.

Air Traffic Control Error

Preliminary reports indicate the incident unfolded when WN507 was forced to abort its landing due to gusty wind conditions. After initiating a go-around, air traffic control instructed the aircraft to turn right.

This instruction inadvertently placed WN507 on a collision course with WN1152, which was departing from a parallel runway. Both aircraft’s onboard collision avoidance systems triggered urgent alarms.

Automated Systems Prevent Impact

The collision avoidance systems instructed one plane to climb while the other descended, increasing the distance between them. FlightRadar24 data shows the jets reached a vertical separation of approximately 500 feet at their closest point.

While this meets the definition of a near midair collision, the FAA’s official review will determine the exact technical proximity. The air traffic controller involved attempted to instruct the departing aircraft to remain below 2,000 feet, but the pilot had already exceeded that altitude.

Investigation and Safety Concerns

This incident has renewed focus on aviation safety, particularly following a crash on January 29, 2025, that resulted in 67 fatalities. Southwest Airlines spokesperson Lynn Lunsford praised the flight crews for their professionalism and adherence to training.

The FAA is interviewing those involved and reviewing audio logs from LiveATC.net to determine how the controller’s instructions created the hazardous situation. Investigators will examine communication protocols and procedural workflows during high-wind operations.

Safety remains the airline’s primary focus as they fully cooperate with federal investigators to ensure the continued security of passengers and crew.