Near-Miss Incident at LAX: FAA Investigates Close Call Involving Gonzaga Basketball Team (video)
On December 27, 2024, a near-collision occurred at LAX involving a Key Lime Air flight carrying Gonzaga's basketball team and a departing Delta Airlines plane. Quick actions by an air traffic controller prevented disaster. The FAA is investigating the incident, which underscores the importance of air traffic safety amid recent aviation concerns.
HASSAN BENYOUB 
A potentially catastrophic incident at Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) has prompted an investigation by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). The event, which occurred on December 27, 2024, involved a private jet carrying the Gonzaga University men's basketball team and a Delta Airlines flight.
The Incident Unfolds
At approximately 4:30 PM Pacific Time, Key Lime Air Flight 563, transporting the Gonzaga basketball team from Spokane, Washington, was taxiing to its gate after landing. Despite clear instructions from air traffic controllers not to cross the runway due to an imminent takeoff, the Embraer E135 jet proceeded past the designated hold bars.
Swift Action Prevents Disaster
As the situation rapidly escalated, an air traffic controller's quick thinking and decisive action averted a potential tragedy. In a tense moment captured on video, the controller can be heard urgently shouting, "Stop! Stop! Stop!" to the pilot of the smaller jet. This timely intervention proved crucial in preventing a collision with the departing Delta flight.
FAA Investigation Underway
The FAA has launched a thorough investigation into the incident. According to their initial statement, the Key Lime Air flight "never crossed the runway edge line," thanks to the controller's prompt action. After the Delta flight safely departed, the Gonzaga team's aircraft was cleared to proceed to its gate.
Impact on Gonzaga's Schedule
Despite the harrowing experience, the Gonzaga basketball team continued with their planned activities. They played against UCLA on December 28, losing 65-62, and were scheduled for another game against Pepperdine University on the following Monday.
Broader Context of Aviation Safety
This incident at LAX is part of a concerning trend of aviation-related events that have occurred recently. In the past week alone, six plane crashes have been reported worldwide, highlighting the critical importance of air traffic control and aviation safety protocols.
As the investigation continues, this near-miss serves as a stark reminder of the constant vigilance required in air traffic management and the vital role that air traffic controllers play in ensuring the safety of passengers and crew.
