Title: A Dangerous Encounter Over The Caribbean – U.S. Military Plane and JetBlue Flight Nearly Collide Due to Transponder Malfunction The recent near-collision between a U.S. military plane and a JetBlue flight over the Caribbean has raised serious concerns about air safety in our skies. According to radio traffic, an Air Force refueling tanker was flying without its location transponder activated, making it virtually invisible to air traffic control systems. This alarming incident highlights the potential dangers of not having proper equipment and communication channels in place during flights. Historically, there have been several instances where similar incidents occurred due to technical glitches or human error. In 2015, two commercial planes came within seconds of colliding mid-air over Germany after one pilot failed to follow standard procedures for avoiding other aircrafts’ paths. Such close calls serve as a stark reminder that even with advanced technology and stringent safety measures in place, accidents can still happen if basic protocol is not followed. The implications of this near miss are far-reaching. If such incidents become more frequent due to negligence or lack of proper equipment, it could lead to catastrophic consequences for both passengers and crew members involved. Moreover, it may also erode public trust in the aviation industry, which has always prided itself on its safety record. From my perspective, this incident underscores the importance of regular maintenance checks and strict adherence to flight protocols by all pilots regardless of their experience level or rank within an organization. Additionally, there needs to be a comprehensive review of current systems used for tracking aircraft movements in real-time. Investment in cutting-edge technology that ensures better communication between planes and air traffic control centers should also be prioritized. In conclusion, the near collision over the Caribbean serves as a wake-up call for both commercial airlines and military organizations to reevaluate their safety measures and ensure they are doing everything possible to prevent similar incidents from occurring in the future. After all, when it comes to air travel, there can never be too much caution or investment in ensuring our skies remain safe for everyone involved.
Source: [Original Article](https://www.nytimes.com/2025/12/14/world/americas/jetblue-venezuela-midair-collision-us-air-force.html)
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