Delta Connection Flight Avoids Collision With B-52 Bomber Over North Dakota

A Delta Connection flight nearly collided with a U.S. Air Force B-52 bomber over North Dakota during a flyover for the North Dakota State Fair, forcing the pilot to perform an aggressive evasive maneuver to avoid disaster. The SkyWest Airlines flight from Minneapolis to Minot executed a sharp turn, described by passengers as similar to a roller coaster experience, after the B-52 unexpectedly appeared in their flight path without prior warning from air traffic control. The Minot Air Force Base confirmed the flyover was pre-approved and communicated to relevant controllers, but the tower did not inform the commercial flight of the inbound bomber. Passengers described the tense situation and praised the pilot's calm and composed handling of the emergency, with the pilot apologizing for the abrupt maneuver after landing. This incident highlights a critical communication lapse between military and civilian air traffic control despite established protocols. The FAA has launched an investigation into the near collision to prevent similar occurrences in the future.