Quick-Thinking Pilot Avoids Collision with Military Bomber over North Dakota

An airline pilot in North Dakota took crucial evasive action to prevent a midair collision with a US Air Force B-52 bomber during a routine flight.

The SkyWest Airlines aircraft, a regional Embraer E175 traveling from Minneapolis-St. Paul to Minot International Airport, narrowly escaped a crash with a B-52 Stratofortress from Minot Air Force Base on Saturday night. According to reports, the pilot executed an aggressive maneuver to avoid the bomber, which was visible from the passengers’ windows.

Passengers on the plane described a strangely calm atmosphere despite the sudden sharp turns. One traveler, Monica Green, recounted feeling confused about whether her reactions were justified, as others seemed unalarmed. The pilot later addressed the passengers via the intercom, explaining that he had been instructed to change course due to insufficient separation from another aircraft on approach.

Green praised the pilot for providing a detailed, calm account of what transpired, noting he appeared shaken even as he discussed the event. The pilot explained he had no prior warning of military traffic — an unusual situation given Minot Air Force Base’s radar capabilities — and quickly made the decision to turn behind the bomber for safety.

He shared that he had received instructions from air traffic control to alter course because of reduced separation from another aircraft. The plane then performed a go-around, and the crew safely landed at Minot Airport.

Minot’s Air Force Base hosts the 5th Bomb Wing and 91st Missile Wing, housing numerous B-52 bombers and military assets. The incident remains under investigation, with SkyWest Airline stating they are looking into the situation.