A Southwest Airlines flight plunged mid-air to avoid a potential collision with a military jet, causing panic onboard.
Flight 1496 had just departed Burbank for Las Vegas on Friday (July 25) when, six minutes in, it suddenly dropped from 14,100 to 13,625 feet, according to FlightRadar24. The dive was to avoid a Hawker Hunter military jet that had entered the same airspace.
Passengers described the moment as “pandemonium,” with some launched from their seats and hitting the ceiling. Two crew members were injured but no passengers were seriously hurt.
The plane resumed its climb within 20 seconds. The pilot later confirmed the maneuver was triggered by onboard collision avoidance systems.
Comedian Jimmy Dore, who was onboard, said on X that people flew out of their seats and a flight attendant required medical attention.
The FAA confirmed the near miss and is investigating.
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