Close Call at Nashville Airport

On September 12, 2024, a potential runway collision at Nashville International Airport (BNA) was narrowly avoided when an Alaska Airlines Boeing 737 MAX and a Southwest Airlines aircraft came dangerously close to each other. The incident occurred around 09:15 local time, as reported by local federal authorities.

The Alaska Airlines flight, designated AS369, was preparing for departure to Seattle when air traffic controllers had cleared it for takeoff. However, as the Boeing 737 MAX accelerated down the runway at approximately 120 miles per hour (193 kilometers per hour), the pilots spotted a Southwest Airlines plane approaching the same runway. Reacting swiftly, the Alaska Airlines crew engaged the brakes, bringing the aircraft to a halt.

Fortunately, there were no reports of damage to either aircraft, though the abrupt stop caused some tires on the Boeing 737 MAX to deflate due to heat buildup. Following the incident, the plane was taxied back to the terminal. An Alaska Airlines spokesperson confirmed that the pilots had acted to prevent a possible accident upon noticing the “potential traffic conflict.”

The Alaska Airlines flight was carrying 176 passengers and six crew members. After the incident, the passengers were transferred to another aircraft and continued their journey to Seattle later that night.

Maintenance technicians in Nashville are currently inspecting the Boeing 737 MAX to assess any potential damage. Details regarding the Southwest Airlines aircraft involved have not yet been released.

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) are conducting a thorough investigation into the incident. Both airlines have expressed their commitment to cooperating fully with the authorities as they examine the events leading up to the near collision.