A Southwest Airlines flight departing from Hollywood Burbank Airport faced a frightening moment when the crew had to execute an extreme maneuver to avoid a potential collision. The incident has brought national attention as passengers and crew reflect on an eventful journey that could have ended very differently. Southwest flight Burbank collision has become a trending topic, driving discussion across news and social media on July 25, 2025.
What Really Happened in the Southwest Flight Burbank Collision?
On Friday, July 25, Southwest Airlines Flight 1496 took off from Hollywood Burbank Airport, headed for Las Vegas. Just minutes into the climb, alarms went off in the cockpit warning of a dangerously close aircraft—a privately owned Hawker Hunter fighter jet flying at a nearly identical altitude and less than two miles ahead.
Reacting within seconds, the crew abruptly descended from 14,100ft to 13,625ft, a drop of 475ft that left passengers stunned and tossed from their seats. The pilots’ swift action, following two cockpit alerts, was necessary to comply with automated collision-avoidance commands. Despite the turbulence and anxiety, the Boeing 737 continued its flight and landed safely in Las Vegas.
Key Points Summary
- Southwest Flight 1496 narrowly avoided a mid-air collision after departing from Burbank on July 25, 2025.
- Pilots performed a sudden 475ft descent based on traffic collision warnings.
- Two flight attendants were injured; no passengers reported injuries.
- The incident involved a near-miss with a Hawker Hunter jet less than six minutes after takeoff.
- Passengers experienced chaos and fear but applauded the crew upon landing.
- The FAA has launched a full investigation into the circumstances of the event.
Passengers Describe a Terrifying Plunge
Accounts from those onboard range from relief to terror. Witnesses noted coffee flying, screams filling the cabin, and a sense of shock as the pilot took action to “avoid a midair collision.” One traveler described feeling the floor drop beneath them; others commented on the professionalism and calm from the crew in handling the aftermath. Notably, two flight attendants required medical attention due to the sharp movement.
Why Did the Collision Threat Arise?
Preliminary flight data traced the trigger back to the Hawker Hunter jet, which was arriving from El Paso, Texas, and passing through the Los Angeles flight corridors on its way to Oxnard, California. Both aircraft were in close proximity—in both altitude and lateral separation—when the collision alert system activated. Aviation experts note that such warnings prompt one plane to climb while the other descends, making coordination vital. In this case, the Southwest pilots had less than a minute to decide.
Response from Southwest Airlines and the FAA
Southwest Airlines commended the pilots and flight attendants, releasing a statement that “nothing is more important to Southwest than the safety of our Customers and Employees.” The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) confirmed it is thoroughly investigating the incident, gathering flight recorder data, air traffic communications, and radar records to determine what went wrong.
Passengers praised the crew’s response, and aviation authorities have reassured the public that reviewing procedures and airspace management is underway. Local airport officials stated that at this stage, there is no evidence the airspace directly over Burbank was compromised, but the inquiry continues.
How Unusual Is an Event Like This?
While rare, near-miss incidents can occur in complex metropolitan airspaces. Experts say modern detection technology and prompt pilot action are crucial in preventing disasters. The FAA is expected to release further findings after completing its review.
In the aftermath of the Southwest flight Burbank collision, travelers, crew, and officials are reflecting on a miracle in the sky. As authorities work to ensure lessons are learned, readers are invited to share their thoughts or stay tuned for further developments in this ongoing story.