On January 12, 2025, a United Airlines flight came alarmingly close to colliding with a Delta flight at Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport, with just a quarter mile separating the two as they attempted to land.

This investigation underscores the critical role of air traffic control and onboard safety systems in maintaining flight safety.

In light of the increasing number of close calls in aviation, the FAA has initiated additional training for air traffic controllers and hosted a summit to address safety concerns, including controller fatigue.

Witness Justin Giddens, who filmed the incident, expressed shock at the close call, describing the two aircraft as being on a converging path.

Following the near miss, both aircraft continued their operations, with the Delta flight returning to Detroit before heading to Amsterdam Schiphol Airport, while the United flight proceeded to Chicago O'Hare International Airport.

Modern aircraft are equipped with advanced collision avoidance systems, such as TCAS II and ACAS Xa/Xo, designed to enhance safety and prevent such incidents.

The FAA is now investigating the incident to determine its root causes and to implement measures that could prevent similar near misses in the future.

Both airlines confirmed that their pilots acted swiftly and effectively to prioritize safety during the incident.

Experts suggest that aircraft should maintain a minimum horizontal separation of five miles to ensure safety during approaches.

The FAA reported that both flight crews received onboard alerts about the proximity of the other aircraft, prompting air traffic control to issue immediate corrective instructions.

This incident is part of a troubling trend of rising 'runway incursions' at U.S. airports, which includes a notable near-collision at Austin-Bergstrom International Airport in February 2023.

Analysis of the incident revealed that the United flight needed to climb while the Delta flight was required to descend to avert a collision.