Alaska Airlines Abort Takeoff in Nashville to Avoid Collision

An Alaska Airlines flight aborted takeoff at Nashville International Airport to avoid a collision with a Southwest Airlines jet. The FAA is investigating the incident involving two Boeing aircraft. The incident resulted in blown tires, and maintenance inspections were carried out. This highlights ongoing concerns about U.S. aviation safety.

An Alaska Airlines airplane aborted takeoff at Tennessee's Nashville International Airport on Thursday to avert a potential collision with a Southwest Airlines jet, according to the airline. Flight 369, a Boeing 737 MAX 9 carrying 176 passengers and six crew, halted its departure around 9:15 a.m. ET due to a possible traffic conflict after receiving clearance from air traffic control.

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) stated that Southwest Airlines Flight 2029—a Boeing 737-700—had been cleared to cross the same runway's end. The FAA is investigating the incident. Alaska's pilots promptly applied brakes, preventing further escalation, and passengers were transferred to another aircraft for the journey to Seattle.

Both the FAA and Alaska reported that the 737 MAX 9's tires were damaged during the braking maneuver. While Southwest has yet to comment, Alaska noted that maintenance technicians in Nashville are examining the airplane. The incident underscores concerns over U.S. aviation safety amid staffing strains in air traffic control operations.

Last year, a series of near-misses prompted scrutiny over aviation safety. FAA Administrator Mike Whitaker indicated a significant reduction in serious runway incursion incidents, but emphasized the need for more technology for controllers and arrival facilities. Meanwhile, the NTSB highlighted the necessity for low-visibility training and faster technological deployment to avert future near-collisions.

(With inputs from agencies.)