NTSB Investigates Close Call Between Plane and Helicopter Near Cleveland Airport

Why this matters: This close call highlights the critical importance of maintaining safe distances between aircraft, especially near busy airports. The NTSB investigation will likely focus on identifying potential lapses in communication or procedures that contributed to the incident, and could lead to recommendations for preventing similar occurrences in the future.

On October 29, a Southwest Airlines Boeing 737 (Flight 1333) inbound to Cleveland Hopkins International Airport experienced a near-miss with a Eurocopter helicopter operated by Metro Aviation. The NTSB is now investigating the circumstances surrounding this event to determine if any safety protocols were breached.

The MetroHealth System confirmed that the helicopter was heading to St. John Medical Center in Westlake, Ohio, to pick up a patient. Both the helicopter pilot and medical crew were in communication with air traffic control throughout the flight. Southwest Airlines stated that their pilots discontinued their initial approach due to the presence of the other aircraft and landed safely shortly after.

The investigation will likely involve a review of air traffic control recordings, flight data, and interviews with the flight crews involved. The NTSB aims to understand how the two aircraft came to be in such close proximity and whether any deviations from standard operating procedures contributed to the incident. The results of this investigation could lead to changes in air traffic control procedures or pilot training to enhance safety.

The NTSB is investigating a near-collision between a Southwest Airlines plane and a medical helicopter near Cleveland Hopkins International Airport.

The incident occurred on October 29.

No injuries or damage have been reported.

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