Gonzagas Jet Narrowly Avoids Collision at LAX

A private jet carrying the Gonzaga University men’s basketball team came perilously close to a departing Delta aircraft on December 27, 2024, at Los Angeles International Airport (LAX). According to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), the near-miss happened around 16:30 local time on runway 24L, illustrating just how critical split-second decisions can be in modern air travel.

The chartered Embraer E135 jet, operated by Key Lime Air, had just arrived from Spokane, Washington, carrying the Gonzaga basketball team and other passengers. Upon landing, air traffic controllers instructed the E135 to stop before crossing runway 24L. At the same time, Delta flight 471 was in the midst of its takeoff roll on that very runway, heading out of LAX to its next destination. Realizing that the Key Lime Air jet was moments away from crossing the active runway, controllers issued an urgent directive: “Stop, stop, stop.” This call ultimately prevented what could have been a catastrophic runway incursion.

Fortunately, the Embraer E135 heeded the warning and did not proceed beyond the runway edge line. While the Delta flight continued its departure without any disruption, the Gonzaga team on board the Embraer was largely unaware of the unfolding drama until after the fact. Gonzaga University officials later confirmed that none of the passengers noticed anything amiss during the incident, and they expressed gratitude that all parties were safe.

In footage captured by Airline Videos and shared on X (formerly Twitter), one can hear the air traffic controller’s tense command to the Key Lime Air pilot. The recording underscores how quickly such scenarios can escalate on busy airport surfaces like LAX, one of the world’s major aviation hubs. With multiple runways, frequent arrivals, and constant departures, coordination among controllers, pilots, and ground crews is paramount to ensure everyone’s safety.

A spokesperson for Delta Air Lines confirmed that flight 471 operated as scheduled and that there was no direct communication from the FAA indicating any potential hazard. However, given the serious nature of near-miss incidents, the FAA has launched a formal investigation. Such inquiries typically involve reviewing radar data, air traffic control tapes, airline operating procedures, and testimonies from the flight crew. Any findings could lead to updates in operational guidelines or additional training to prevent future incidents.

Gonzaga University, a prominent institution with a highly regarded men’s basketball program, often relies on chartered flights for travel during the competitive season. While it is not unusual for collegiate teams to arrive at major airports, the hustle and bustle of LAX magnifies the importance of meticulous planning and attentive ground control.

This incident, although alarming in the moment, concluded without physical harm, underscoring the effectiveness of rapid response and communication protocols. Nevertheless, it serves as a reminder of the complexities of managing air traffic in real time. As air travel demand rebounds globally, airlines, private operators, and regulatory authorities continue to refine safety measures. Passengers—like the Gonzaga team—can remain confident that such near misses spark rigorous reviews, ultimately enhancing the industry’s already stringent safety standards.

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