A potentially hazardous situation unfolded at Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) on Friday afternoon, involving a chartered flight carrying the Gonzaga University men's basketball team. The incident occurred as the team was arriving for their upcoming game against UCLA. Video footage captured by Airline Videos Live shows the alarming proximity between the Key Lime jet and a departing Delta flight. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has launched an investigation into this near-miss event.

Details of the Incident

In the golden hues of a late afternoon in Los Angeles, the Gonzaga University men's basketball team touched down at LAX aboard their chartered Key Lime Flight 563. As the aircraft taxied toward its designated gate around 4:30 pm, it inadvertently approached the runway where a Delta plane was preparing to take off. Air traffic controllers had instructed the pilot to hold position short of the runway. However, video recordings reveal that the charter jet continued its approach, prompting urgent calls from the control tower to halt immediately. Fortunately, the Delta flight managed to take off safely, averting what could have been a catastrophic collision. According to the FAA, the Key Lime jet did not cross the runway boundary. A spokesperson for Gonzaga University confirmed that the team members were unaware of the close call during the incident and expressed gratitude for the safe resolution.

From a journalist’s perspective, this incident underscores the critical importance of stringent safety protocols in aviation. It serves as a stark reminder of the potential risks involved in air travel and highlights the need for continuous vigilance and adherence to established procedures by all parties involved. While the outcome was fortunate, such events should prompt a thorough review of operational practices to prevent similar occurrences in the future.