An air traffic controller’s swift actions helped avert a potential collision at Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport. Late Thursday night, two American Airlines jets, one landing and the other taking off, shared the same flight number and radio frequency.
The experienced air traffic controller noticed the issue as American Airlines Flight 2482 approached for landing from Chicago, while another plane was departing for Chicago with the same call sign. Recognizing the risk, the controller promptly communicated distinct instructions to the pilots, referring to them as “American 2842 departing” and “American 2482 arriving” to ensure clarity.
The controller’s intervention allowed the aircraft to remain safely separated, and both flights proceeded without incident. Speaking to the pilots, the controller remarked, “I’ve been working air traffic for 25 years. I’ve never seen two aircraft pretty much merge with the same call sign. That’s pretty incredible.” He further remarked on the potential danger, saying, “It could have been disastrous, but I’m glad it all worked out.”
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) confirmed that the planes maintained the necessary separation throughout the incident. The FAA is currently investigating the situation. American Airlines explained that the mix-up arose due to a delay of the incoming flight from Chicago O’Hare International Airport. The arriving plane was supposed to land, pick up new passengers, and return to Chicago using the same call sign. Due to the delay, another aircraft was assigned to ensure the waiting passengers in Phoenix could depart promptly.
In a statement, American Airlines said it is reviewing the incident, noting, “The diligence and professionalism of air traffic controllers and our pilots ensured required separation was always maintained and the issue was identified and addressed. Both flights continued safely and without incident.”