On a recent Friday afternoon, the Gonzaga men's basketball team experienced an alarming near-miss incident at Los Angeles International Airport (LAX). Footage captured the moment their chartered Embraer E135 aircraft came perilously close to a Delta flight taking off on an adjacent runway. The proximity of the two planes prompted air traffic controllers to urgently instruct the Gonzaga pilot to halt immediately. Fortunately, both aircraft avoided a collision, and the team safely proceeded to their game against UCLA. However, this incident has sparked investigations by both the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and university officials.
Incident Unfolds Amidst Tense Moments
The harrowing event unfolded around 4:30 PM on Friday when the Gonzaga team’s aircraft was taxiing towards its gate after landing in Los Angeles. Simultaneously, a Delta plane was preparing for takeoff from a nearby runway. As the two aircraft approached each other, the situation became critical. An air traffic controller swiftly intervened, ordering the Gonzaga pilot to stop immediately. This quick action prevented what could have been a catastrophic collision.
Despite the tension, the passengers aboard the Gonzaga jet were unaware of the unfolding drama. According to university officials, the team members did not realize the severity of the situation until later. The university expressed gratitude for the safe resolution of the incident, emphasizing that the safety of all involved was paramount. The footage, which captured every tense moment, highlights the importance of stringent safety protocols and swift decision-making in aviation.
Investigations and Future Implications
In response to the incident, the FAA has initiated a thorough investigation to determine the cause and ensure such events do not recur. University officials also stated they are reviewing the matter internally. The Gonzaga team, who managed to reach their game against UCLA despite the earlier scare, lost the match with a score of 65-62. Nevertheless, the incident serves as a stark reminder of the potential dangers in air travel and the need for continuous vigilance.
The FAA’s investigation will likely scrutinize various aspects, including communication between air traffic control and pilots, adherence to standard operating procedures, and any potential human error. For Gonzaga, the incident underscores the importance of ensuring the safety of student-athletes and staff during travel. Moving forward, the team is scheduled to play against Pepperdine in Malibu on Monday night, providing a brief respite from the pressures of air travel. The broader implications of this incident may lead to enhanced safety measures and protocols within the aviation industry.