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What happened with the JetBlue near miss and US Air Force jet?
On December 14, 2025, JetBlue Flight 1112 narrowly avoided a mid-air collision with a US Air Force refueling tanker near Venezuelan airspace. The military jet flew at the same altitude without its transponder on, which is unusual and dangerous. The JetBlue pilot had to stop climbing to avoid the military aircraft, highlighting the risks of unidentified military flights in civilian airspace.
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Are military jets flying dangerously close to commercial flights?
There have been instances where military jets have come within a few miles of commercial aircraft, especially in regions with heightened military activity. While most military flights follow strict safety protocols, some incidents occur due to unidentified aircraft or communication issues, raising concerns about potential collisions.
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How common are mid-air encounters between military and civilian aircraft?
Mid-air encounters between military and civilian aircraft are relatively rare but do happen, particularly in areas with increased military operations or tensions. The FAA and military agencies monitor these situations closely to prevent accidents, but incidents like the recent near miss remind us of the ongoing risks.
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What safety measures are in place to prevent airspace collisions?
Air traffic control, transponder systems, and collision avoidance technology are key safety measures used to prevent collisions. Military aircraft are required to follow specific protocols, but in some cases, unidentified or non-compliant aircraft can pose risks, prompting investigations and safety reviews.
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Why was the military jet flying without its transponder on?
The exact reasons for the military jet flying without its transponder are not publicly confirmed, but such actions can be related to operational security or specific military procedures. However, flying without a transponder significantly increases the risk of mid-air collisions with civilian aircraft.
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What is the US military doing about these incidents?
The US military is investigating the recent near miss and reviewing protocols to improve safety. They are also coordinating with civilian authorities like the FAA to ensure better communication and identification of military aircraft in civilian airspace, especially in sensitive regions like the Caribbean.